US Edition
WhatsApp Says Russia Is Trying to Block It
Russia restricts calls on WhatsApp and Telegram citing failure to share user data with law enforcement while promoting state-controlled MAX app with growing political support.
- On August 14, 2025, Russia began restricting calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing them of not sharing data with law enforcement.
- This action follows ongoing efforts by Russia to increase internet control, including new laws tightening censorship and promoting state apps.
- WhatsApp, used by over 97 million Russians, said Russia aims to block secure communications, while Telegram uses AI to remove millions of harmful messages daily.
- WhatsApp emphasized that its platform ensures privacy through end-to-end encryption and resists government efforts to undermine individuals' ability to communicate securely.
- The restrictions could reduce access to encrypted messaging for millions, as Russia pushes the government-controlled MAX app and expands digital surveillance.
25 Articles
25 Articles
Daily Maverick
WhatsApp accuses Moscow of trying to block secure communication for millions of Russians
MOSCOW, Aug 14 (Reuters) - WhatsApp accused Moscow of trying to block millions of Russians from accessing secure communication after calls on the messaging app were restricted, as Russia promotes home-grown social media platforms and seeks greater control over the country's internet space.
The Russian Ministry of Digital Development announced that Russia has begun imposing partial restrictions on calls to WhatsApp and Telegram. The ministry stated that the two platforms do not share information.
Messaging app WhatsApp announced on Thursday that Russian authorities are trying to block its services because the social media app, owned by Meta Platforms, offers people the right to safe communication.
Channel News Asia
WhatsApp says Russia is trying to block it
MOSCOW: WhatsApp said Russia was trying to block its services because the social media messaging app owned by Meta Platforms offered people's right to secure communication, and vowed to continue trying to make encrypted services available in Russia.
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