Russia limits WhatsApp, Telegram calls, citing crime, sabotage
Russia has moved to curb voice call services on WhatsApp and Telegram, claiming the popular messaging apps are being exploited for fraud, criminal schemes, and sabotage operations amid the war in Ukraine.
The measure, announced Wednesday by state communications watchdog Roskomnadzor, could impact tens of millions of users.
Industry data from Mediascope estimates WhatsApp’s monthly Russian user base at about 96 million, while Telegram is used by roughly 89 million people nationwide.
According to the regulator, both platforms have become “primary tools for scams, extortion, and recruitment into sabotage and terrorist activities.” Authorities say repeated requests for the companies to address the problem have gone unanswered.
“Voice services will be restored only after these foreign messengers comply with Russian law,” Roskomnadzor said.
Though officials stressed the block applies only to voice calls, some users have reported difficulty placing video calls as well.
The restrictions are the latest in a series of moves tightening Moscow’s grip on digital communications since its 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Russian officials accuse Kyiv of using encrypted messaging services to coordinate strikes and recruit agents inside the country.
Last month, the Kremlin introduced new penalties for searching banned content online and promoted the adoption of Max, a state-backed messaging platform critics say could enable government surveillance.
In response, WhatsApp posted on Instagram Stories that it would “continue to defend private, end-to-end encrypted communication” despite Moscow’s efforts to limit access.
Telegram, created by Russian-born entrepreneur Pavel Durov, told reporters it removes “millions of harmful posts daily,” including calls for violence and fraudulent material.
Russia limits WhatsApp, Telegram calls, citing crime, sabotage
