techend
By Malik Shahzad Aslam :
Russia has officially blocked access to WhatsApp, citing the platform’s failure to follow local laws, just days after taking similar action against rival service Telegram.
Russian authorities have been gradually steering users toward Max, a locally developed messaging platform that does not offer end-to-end encryption. Digital rights activists warn that the app could be used to monitor private communications.
Analysts say the latest restrictions reflect a broader effort by the Kremlin to tighten oversight of online activity and expand its ability to track digital communications within the country.
WhatsApp, owned by US-based tech firm Meta, reportedly has more than 100 million users in Russia. It remains the most widely used messaging app among people aged 25 and above, while Telegram dominates usage among younger users, according to data from Russian media outlet RBK.
Russian officials had previously blocked voice calls on both platforms in August last year, accusing them of being exploited for criminal activities. Since then, authorities have gradually reduced WhatsApp’s functionality and warned in November that a complete ban would follow if the company failed to meet regulatory requirements.
Moscow has demanded that both platforms provide user data to law enforcement agencies upon request, particularly for investigations related to fraud and what it categorizes as terrorist activity. Digital rights groups argue that these demands undermine privacy and freedom of expression.
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