messaging apps Archives

AppWizard

August 16, 2025

Russia Blocks Calls on Popular Messaging Apps

Russia’s telecommunications authority, Roskomnadzor, has imposed restrictions on voice and video calls via WhatsApp and Telegram, citing the need to protect the population from fraud related to foreign messenger services. Citizens are encouraged to transition to Max, a new Russian messaging application that allows state intelligence services easier access to user data. Journalist Viktor Shenderovich commented that these actions reflect a shift towards a more oppressive regime, noting growing frustrations among the populace due to ongoing conflicts and communication restrictions. Reports indicate that the Kremlin is limiting access to information under various pretexts, with the security services alleging that Ukraine uses Telegram for recruitment and sabotage. Additionally, a Human Rights Watch report highlighted the government's efforts to expand technological capabilities to obstruct access to undesirable websites, impacting press freedom and online expression. The messaging app Max was launched by VK, a company acquired by Yuri Kovalchuk, a close ally of President Putin, and is being promoted aggressively through state-owned media despite being privately owned.

AppWizard

August 15, 2025

Russia restricts Telegram and WhatsApp calls: Why the Kremlin is cracking down on messaging apps | – The Times of India

Russia has imposed restrictions on voice calls made through Telegram and WhatsApp due to their non-compliance with local laws regarding information sharing with law enforcement. Users can still send messages, but call functionalities are affected. The restrictions will remain until both platforms comply with Russian regulations and cooperate with Roskomnadzor. Telegram stated it actively monitors content to combat fraud and violence, while WhatsApp has not commented. Since August 11, voice calls on Telegram have been largely ineffective, and WhatsApp calls have faced significant disruptions. Additionally, President Putin has approved the creation of a state-backed messaging application to reduce reliance on foreign technology and enable user monitoring.

AppWizard

August 15, 2025

911 emergency calls now possible through messaging apps in these LGUs

Residents and visitors in Morong, Rizal, and Mambajao, Camiguin Island can now make emergency calls through messaging apps and social media platforms as part of a modernization initiative for emergency response systems. Mambajao activated its local 911 emergency hotline on February 27, becoming the first next-generation 911-enabled command center in Northern Mindanao, reducing response times to three to seven minutes. The Next Generation Advanced (NGA) 911 Philippines launched the NEXiS Message platform, allowing emergency calls via traditional voice methods, text messages, video calls, and popular applications like Facebook Messenger. This system consolidates incoming messages into a single platform, improving efficiency and response times while ensuring the security of shared information through encryption. NEXiS Message integrates with legacy and modern communication technologies and facilitates inter-agency collaboration. NGA 911 Philippines aims to expand next-generation 911 technology to more communities in the country and has received certification from the National Emergency Number Association (NENA).

AppWizard

August 14, 2025

Kremlin Orders Officials to Move Telegram Channels to Domestic Messaging App Max

The Kremlin has directed government officials and lawmakers to shift their Telegram channels to the domestic messaging platform, Max, to establish a "priority information system." Channels from the State Duma, regional governors, and pro-Kremlin commentators are expected to launch on Max soon, managed by the state-supported nonprofit, Dialog. While officials will still use Telegram, utilizing Max for work-related communications is now mandatory. State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin has already transitioned to Max, which will be the exclusive platform for official communications. Additionally, the Russian authorities have begun imposing partial restrictions on voice calls through Telegram and WhatsApp due to complaints about scams and other illegal activities, although these functionalities could be reinstated if the apps comply with Russian legal standards.

AppWizard

August 14, 2025

This Spyware Campaign Is Targeting Android Users Via Messaging Apps

A new spyware campaign targeting Android users, identified as LunaSpy, has been reported by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky and is believed to have been operational since at least February 2025. This malware disguises itself as antivirus software delivered through messenger applications. It can record audio and video, access texts, call logs, and contacts, execute shell commands, steal passwords, track locations, and record the device screen. LunaSpy spreads primarily through messenger platforms like Telegram, where users receive messages urging them to install the app. Users are advised to download applications only from official sources like the Google Play Store and to be cautious with third-party sources. They should also block installations from unknown sources, review app permissions, and uninstall any suspicious applications immediately. A factory reset can remove malware if necessary, provided important data is backed up.

AppWizard

August 14, 2025

Russia curbs WhatsApp, Telegram calls to ‘combat criminals’

Russia's communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, announced restrictions on calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram to combat criminal activities. The agency claims these messaging apps have become primary channels for fraud, extortion, and recruitment for subversive actions. Russian security services allege that Ukraine uses Telegram for recruitment and sabotage. The government seeks greater control over user data for investigations into fraud and terrorism. Restrictions will be lifted once the platforms comply with local legislation. Telegram stated it actively prevents misuse of its platform, while WhatsApp expressed concerns over the implications of these restrictions on user privacy and security.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

Beware the strange file in your messages: This “antivirus” app fakes scans, then watches everything

A new Android app called LunaSpy poses as an antivirus or banking protection tool but is actually sophisticated spyware. It spreads mainly through messaging platforms like Telegram, using social engineering tactics to prompt users to grant extensive permissions by generating fake “threats found” notifications. Once granted access, LunaSpy can read text messages, extract credentials, track locations, and record audio or video. The app is distributed through links that encourage users to sideload an APK rather than downloading from the official Play Store. It requests excessive permissions that legitimate antivirus apps would not demand, making devices vulnerable to data exfiltration. Users are advised to avoid installing APKs from chat links, uninstall suspicious applications, review and revoke excessive permissions, and take steps to secure their accounts.

AppWizard

August 12, 2025

This so-called Android ‘antivirus’ is just a front for spyware

LunaSpy is an Android spyware that has been circulating since February 2025, primarily infiltrating devices through messaging platforms like Telegram. It disguises itself as a legitimate antivirus or banking protection app, tricking users into granting extensive permissions by initiating a fake virus scan and presenting false notifications of threats. Once installed, LunaSpy can steal passwords from browsers and messaging apps, record audio and video, access text messages, track geographical location, and execute commands on the device. The spyware also contains dormant code that may allow it to steal photos in future updates. Data collected by LunaSpy is sent to attackers via around 150 servers. Users are advised against downloading APKs from links shared through messaging apps and should uninstall any unfamiliar antivirus applications that request extensive access to their devices.

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

Decentralizing Trust — An Interview with the Team Behind Session Messenger

Session is a decentralized messaging platform that prioritizes user anonymity and metadata resistance. It operates on a network of community-operated servers, eliminating central authority and personal identifiers such as phone numbers or emails for account creation. This design minimizes risks of data breaches and unauthorized tracking. Session does not collect user metadata, which distinguishes it from other messaging apps that may expose user insights through metadata. Users are assigned randomly generated cryptographic keys instead of traditional identifiers, ensuring secure messaging. Messages are routed via a protocol called Onion Requests, which strips metadata during transmission. The platform is open-source, benefiting from community contributions, and aims to enhance user privacy by employing anonymous routing. Recent developments include a migration to the Session Network for improved accessibility and security, and a move to Switzerland for better data protection. Session is introducing a Pro tier to enhance user experience while maintaining free access for all. The platform emphasizes the importance of transparency and robust design in communication tools.

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

Fake Antivirus App Delivers LunaSpy Malware to Android Devices

A cybercrime campaign is targeting Android users with counterfeit antivirus applications that install LunaSpy spyware on devices. This campaign has been active since at least February 2025 and spreads through messaging apps and fake Telegram channels. Cybercriminals use social engineering tactics to trick users into installing the malware by presenting it as legitimate security software. Once installed, the app performs fake scans and generates alarming reports to manipulate users into granting extensive permissions, allowing access to personal data, including passwords and financial details. LunaSpy can steal passwords, record audio and video, access text messages, track locations, and capture screen activity. It communicates with attackers through around 150 domains and IP addresses. Users are advised to avoid unofficial software sources and be cautious with download requests.