- Russia has threatened to completely ban WhatsApp, accusing the platform of failing to comply with local data-access laws
- The crackdown follows earlier restrictions, including an August block on WhatsApp voice calls, as Moscow pushes to tighten control over Western-owned apps
- Authorities are urging Russians to switch to state-backed messaging apps, especially Max, which lacks end-to-end encryption and now comes pre-installed on new devices
- Meta says Russia wants to ban WhatsApp because it protects secure communication, while digital rights groups fear the move will expand government surveillance
- WhatsApp remains one of Russia’s most popular apps, alongside Telegram, raising concerns that millions could lose access if the ban is enforced
MOSCOW, Russia- Russia has issued its clearest warning yet that WhatsApp could be completely banned across the country, accusing the Meta-owned platform of failing to comply with local laws and prevent criminal activity.
On Friday, Russia’s communications regulator Roskomnadzor said WhatsApp must grant authorities access to data when requested — or face a total shutdown. The regulator urged citizens to switch to “national services.”
Meta dismissed the threat, saying the Kremlin is simply punishing WhatsApp because it “defies government attempts to violate people’s right to secure communication.”
The Crackdown Behind the Threat
The latest move lands on top of Russia’s widening clampdown on Western apps. In August, Moscow blocked voice calls on WhatsApp, a restriction critics say is part of a broader push to strengthen state control over digital spaces.
WhatsApp and Telegram remain Russia’s two most-used messaging services — but the government wants both platforms to provide investigators access to user data for what it calls fraud and terrorism probes.
Digital rights advocates argue the pressure campaign is really aimed at enabling mass surveillance, especially amid continuing crackdowns on critics of President Vladimir Putin and dissent surrounding the war in Ukraine.
Russia’s Push for Homegrown Apps
To speed up the transition away from Western platforms, Moscow has heavily promoted Max, a domestic messaging app without end-to-end encryption.
Authorities now require Max to come pre-installed on all new smartphones and tablets sold in Russia.
The tightening measures have sparked concerns that Russians may soon be left with only state-friendly apps — and little protection for their private conversations.
