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Russian censorship agency threatens total block of WhatsApp citing terror links
AppWizard
November 30, 2025

Russian censorship agency threatens total block of WhatsApp citing terror links

Roskomnadzor, Russia's media regulator, has warned WhatsApp that it could be blocked unless it complies with local laws, citing concerns about the platform's use for terrorist activities and fraud. The agency highlighted WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption as an obstacle for law enforcement. Since August, Roskomnadzor has implemented gradual restrictions, including blocking voice calls and instructing telecom operators to stop text message verifications for new users, with a complete ban possible if compliance is not met. The regulator has suggested users switch to domestic alternatives, such as the state-backed MAX messaging app. WhatsApp has around 97 million users in Russia and has faced increasing scrutiny amid a broader crackdown on foreign messaging services. The company has reiterated its commitment to end-to-end encryption but has not publicly responded to Roskomnadzor's latest threats.
Kremlin Orders Officials to Move Telegram Channels to Domestic Messaging App Max
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.
All signal, no substance VK’s Max app aims to replace WhatsApp, but the Russian celebrities paid to promote it have found just one selling point: it works
AppWizard
July 16, 2025

All signal, no substance VK’s Max app aims to replace WhatsApp, but the Russian celebrities paid to promote it have found just one selling point: it works

VK is promoting its new messaging app, Max, by enlisting internet personalities and celebrities to enhance its visibility. The app is currently in beta testing and is positioned as a potential alternative to WhatsApp, especially if Russian authorities restrict access to foreign messaging platforms. Notable figures like Daria Zoteeva and Valentina Karnaukhova have praised Max for its voice call quality, sharing positive personal experiences. As of June 30, VK reported one million registered users within three months, and by early July, user numbers reportedly exceeded two million following the introduction of group video calls.
Copilot on Windows: “Hey, Copilot!” begins rolling out to Windows Insiders
Winsage
May 14, 2025

Copilot on Windows: “Hey, Copilot!” begins rolling out to Windows Insiders

Microsoft is rolling out an update for the Copilot app through the Microsoft Store, introducing several enhancements. A key feature is the "Hey, Copilot" wake word, allowing users to activate Copilot Voice hands-free. Users must enable this feature in the app's settings. Once activated, users can say "Hey, Copilot" followed by their query, and the Copilot interface will appear on the screen. Conversations can be ended by tapping the ‘X’ or automatically after a few moments of silence. The feature requires manual activation and will show that the microphone is in use when enabled. The wake word detection occurs locally, and no recordings are sent to the cloud until the wake word is recognized. The feature is available only in English and requires the PC to be powered on and unlocked. The update version 1.25051.10.0 and higher is being rolled out gradually to Insiders with English display language settings. Users can provide feedback through the app.
Modern Discord hacked into Windows 95 and 98, slimmed down version keeps core functionality intact
Winsage
February 3, 2025

Modern Discord hacked into Windows 95 and 98, slimmed down version keeps core functionality intact

A developer known as IProgramInCpp has backported Discord to Windows 95 and Windows 98 Second Edition, creating a version called Discord Messenger. This backport retains essential messaging functionalities such as direct messages, server interactions, image uploads, message editing, typing indicators, server member lists, and untrusted URL indicators. However, it lacks features like the friend list, dark mode, and voice channel capabilities, with voice call support being particularly challenging to integrate. The application runs on Windows 98 SE and Windows XP SP2, but may not appeal to users on modern systems. Caution is advised as using a custom Discord client may violate the platform's terms of service, especially since certain features are omitted to avoid spam detection.
FBI warns users to encrypt text messages for cybersecurity. Here's how to do it
AppWizard
December 7, 2024

FBI warns users to encrypt text messages for cybersecurity. Here’s how to do it

The FBI has advised smartphone users to encrypt text messages, especially when communicating between Apple and Android devices, due to a cyber espionage campaign linked to hackers from the People's Republic of China. These hackers have targeted telecommunications infrastructure and stolen sensitive customer call records. Standard text messages between Apple and Android devices lack encryption, while messages between two devices of the same platform are secure. Users are encouraged to use secure messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal, which provide end-to-end encryption. To use WhatsApp, users must download the app, accept terms, verify their phone number, and set up their profile. For Signal, users follow a similar process of downloading the app, verifying their phone number, creating a PIN, and setting up their profile. Both apps require Wi-Fi or cellular data for operation.
Hun Sen embraces locally-made messaging app ‘CoolApp’
AppWizard
June 25, 2024

Hun Sen embraces locally-made messaging app ‘CoolApp’

Hun Sen encourages government officials and armed forces to use CoolApp, a Cambodian messaging app, to ensure confidentiality and protect communications within the kingdom in the event of a foreign social network being disrupted.
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