Russia has announced restrictions on the messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of failing to share information with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases. The restrictions, which target voice calls, were confirmed by the communications regulator Roskomnadzor, which said measures were being taken to partially limit calls on these foreign messengers.
Moscow has clashed with foreign tech platforms for several years over content and data storage, a dispute that intensified after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Critics argue that the Kremlin is seeking greater control over the country’s internet space, with President Vladimir Putin authorising the development of a state-backed messaging app integrated with government services.
Russia’s digital ministry stated that access to calls on foreign messengers would be restored once they comply with Russian legislation. Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the lower house of parliament’s information technology committee, said the platforms would need to open legal entities in Russia and cooperate with Roskomnadzor and law enforcement to lift the blocking measures.
WhatsApp’s owner, Meta, responded by saying the app is private and end-to-end encrypted, and that Russia is trying to block it from over 100 million Russian users. Telegram said it actively combats misuse of its platform, including calls for sabotage or violence, and removes millions of harmful content pieces daily. Reports indicated that voice calls on Telegram had barely functioned since 11 August, while WhatsApp calls were rendered impossible due to intermittent sound and buzzing.
Critics have voiced concerns that Russia’s new state-backed messaging app may track users’ activities and that Russia could slow WhatsApp’s speeds to encourage migration to the new platform. Human Rights Watch reported last month that Russia is increasing its technological control over the internet, enabling more widespread blocking and throttling of unwanted websites.
