Russia is threatening to completely ban WhatsApp, accusing the Meta-owned messaging service of failing to prevent crime and terrorist acts, as part of its ongoing efforts to compel Russians toward state-backed digital platforms.
Russia announced on Friday that it may completely ban WhatsApp, accusing the Meta-owned platform of failing to curb criminal activity as the government intensifies its push for Russians to adopt state-backed digital services.
Roskomnadzor, the country’s communications watchdog, claimed the app is being used “to organise and carry out terrorist acts in the country, to recruit perpetrators, and for fraud and other crimes against our citizens,” warning that “if the messenger fails to comply with Russian legislation, it will be completely blocked.” The move follows Russia’s earlier restriction on WhatsApp calls and broader crackdowns on Western-owned platforms.
Authorities want messaging services to provide user data to law enforcement, a demand rights advocates say would expand state surveillance and potentially target critics of President Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine.