In a significant move, the Russian government has officially blocked the popular messaging application WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, citing the company’s failure to adhere to local regulations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the decision on Thursday, suggesting that citizens should consider using MAX, a state-backed messaging alternative. Peskov described MAX as an “accessible alternative” and a “developing messenger” that integrates various government services to enhance daily life for its users.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about MAX, labeling it a surveillance tool, a claim that the authorities have vehemently denied. This latest action against WhatsApp follows a prolonged period of pressure on the platform, reflecting a broader initiative by Russian authorities to establish a “sovereign” communications infrastructure. This effort aims to ensure that foreign tech companies comply with local laws or risk being excluded from the market.
Meta Russia has already been classified as an extremist organization, and WhatsApp has voiced its grievances regarding the government’s attempts to fully block its services. In a statement, the company expressed concern that the Russian government’s actions would isolate over 100 million users from secure communication channels, deeming it a regressive step that could compromise the safety of individuals in Russia.
Restrictions on WhatsApp
The Russian authorities have a history of blocking or restricting access to various social media platforms, including Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Their focus has now shifted to MAX, which critics argue could be utilized to monitor user activity. Despite these allegations, government officials assert that MAX is designed to simplify and improve the lives of citizens.
Restrictions on WhatsApp began in August when Roskomnadzor, the state communications regulator, accused the platform of failing to cooperate with law enforcement in cases related to fraud and terrorism. By December, the agency had announced further measures to gradually limit the app’s functionality, claiming it was being used to facilitate criminal activities.
Russian courts have imposed fines on WhatsApp for not removing prohibited content, and authorities have insisted that the company establish a local representative office in Russia to comply with regulations—a requirement that remains unmet. As a result, many users have turned to virtual private networks (VPNs) to access WhatsApp, while others have started to explore alternative messaging platforms, such as Telegram, which also faces scrutiny from the government.
(FRANCE 24 with Reuters)
