We think that providing this kind of secure private means of communication for the masses for 99.999 percent of people that have nothing to do with terrorism means more than the threat that we see from the other side.

In this quote, Pavel Durov emphasizes the importance of providing a secure private means of communication for the general public, particularly for the masses who have no involvement in criminal activities or terrorism. Durov argues that protecting privacy and ensuring secure communication channels for everyday people should take precedence over the potential threat posed by those involved in terrorism. He suggests that the vast majority of individuals should not be penalized by compromising their privacy due to the actions of a small minority.

Durov’s statement highlights his belief in the balance between security and personal freedom. He implies that while security concerns, especially in the context of terrorism, are valid, they should not outweigh the fundamental right to privacy and freedom of communication for the general population. The “99.999 percent” refers to the large number of individuals who use communication tools for everyday purposes, not for harmful activities, underscoring the idea that their privacy is just as important.

The quote also touches on the dilemma faced by companies and governments when it comes to securing data. On one hand, authorities may want to access communications to fight crime or prevent terrorism, but on the other hand, it is essential to protect individual privacy from overreach. Durov is advocating for a system that prioritizes the protection of personal data and communication, believing that the benefits of this far outweigh the risks of potential misuse by criminals.

Ultimately, Durov’s message is a call for security measures that do not infringe upon the rights of the innocent majority. He stands by the principle that privacy and secure communication should be safeguarded, even when facing threats like terrorism, as the value of protecting individual rights is paramount.