Recent investigations by Novaya Gazeta Europe have unveiled a significant privacy concern regarding Blink, a Russian messaging application that allows users to track their friends’ locations. Despite its public stance against VK, the parent company of the competing Max messaging app, Blink has been found to send user data directly to VK servers.
Controversy and Criticism
The tension between Blink and VK has escalated since August 2026, when Blink and its affiliated bloggers publicly criticized Artemy Lebedev, VK’s design director. Lebedev had labeled Blink an “anti-app,” describing it as “terrible” and “monstrous.” In response, Blink employees have taken to social media to disparage the Max app. A notable instance occurred during VK Fest, where a Blink social media manager conducted a playful survey, asking attendees which name they found least appealing. The overwhelming response was “Maksim,” leading to a humorous declaration: “Never talk to Max. He’s not your friend; we are.”
Data Tracking Practices
While the rivalry intensifies, Blink’s operational practices raise eyebrows. The app is designed to continuously track users’ movements, transmitting this data to various destinations, including VK servers, without the protection of end-to-end encryption. This frequent data transmission allows for the reconstruction of users’ routes, detailing their speed and stops along the way.
- Key points regarding Blink’s data practices include:
- The app’s main feature, Blink Maps, is hosted on VK’s servers, which are not available for rent.
- Location data is sent to MyTracker, an analytics system owned by VK, every few seconds.
- Eight senior Blink employees, along with a former CEO, have connections to VK, either having transitioned from VK to Blink or still maintaining roles at VK.
As the competition between these messaging platforms unfolds, the implications for user privacy and data security remain a critical focus for both consumers and industry observers alike.
