Russia Imposes Restrictions on WhatsApp and Telegram Amid Growing Online Control
In a significant move to tighten its grip on online communications, Russia has imposed restrictions on voice calls made through popular messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram. This action is part of Moscow’s efforts to increase control over the internet, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
According to Russian media monitoring service Mediascope, WhatsApp boasts around 96 million monthly users in Russia, while Telegram has over 89 million users. The recent restrictions on voice calls are set to impact a vast number of these users.
Roskomnadzor, Russia’s media and internet regulator, stated that the decision was necessary to combat crime. In a statement, the agency pointed out that law enforcement and citizen complaints have indicated that foreign messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp are increasingly used for deception, extortion, and even involvement in sabotage and terrorist activities. They emphasized that repeated requests for these platforms to take action against misuse have gone unheeded.
Moscow is now demanding that these messaging services grant access to user data upon request from law enforcement officials. Roskomnadzor indicated that the restrictions on calls would be lifted only when the apps comply with Russian laws. While officials stated that only voice calls would be affected, users have also reported disruptions to video calls.
Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the government has been ramping up its control over the Russian segment of the internet. Security forces have often claimed that Telegram is being used by Ukraine for recruitment and sabotage efforts within Russia.
In addition to the current restrictions, a new law was enacted last month that penalizes online users for searching for content deemed illegal by the authorities. There are also plans to promote a domestic messaging app called Max, which critics fear may compromise user privacy and allow government access to personal data.
A spokesperson for WhatsApp stated that the encrypted messaging platform "stands against government attempts to infringe on individuals’ rights to secure communication," explaining that this is why Russia seeks to block access for over 100 million of its users.
In a statement to AFP, Telegram affirmed its commitment to combating misuse of its platform, including any calls for violence or sabotage and fraudulent activities. The company highlighted that it eliminates millions of harmful content pieces daily. Despite its origins with Russian entrepreneur Pavel Durov, Telegram continues to face scrutiny in various countries, including Russia, for not doing enough to mitigate criminal activity on its platform.
As these developments unfold, the landscape of online communication in Russia continues to evolve, raising concerns about privacy and freedom of expression in the digital age.
