The founder of the Telegram messenger Pavel Durov was detained at Le Bourget airport in Paris on August 24.
Durov was forced to remain in France under judicial control.
French billionaire Xavier Niel, founder of the telecommunications group Iliad, confirmed that he provided assistance to Pavel Durov, Le Monde writes.
On air at the RMC radio station, Niel said that he provided Durov with secret apartments in Paris so that he could remain safe.
Niel also stressed that for him Durov has not yet crossed the line, since he has not been convicted.
He noted: "When people end up in jail because of problems with the law, all their friends disappear."
Niel added that he is always ready to help friends who find themselves in a difficult situation.
