Russia Restricts Messaging App Calls Citing Fraud And Terrorism Concerns
Russia Partially Blocks WhatsApp and Telegram Calls in Push for ‘Digital Sovereignty’
Russia has started to partially block voice and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp, citing a refusal by the companies to cooperate with law enforcement on issues of fraud and terrorism. The Russian government’s state communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, justified the move by claiming the apps are the primary tools used for criminal activities like deceit and extortion, as well as for involving citizens in sabotage.
According to a Russian lawmaker, fraud cases on WhatsApp alone have reportedly surged by 250% in 2024. The government has stated that the restrictions will remain in place until the apps comply with Russian law, which includes providing user information when requested and potentially establishing local legal entities in the country.
Broader Context of ‘Digital Sovereignty’
This action is part of Russia’s larger strategy to create a “sovereign internet,” aiming to reduce its reliance on foreign technology and increase state control over online communications. This has included past measures such as the 2019 “Sovereign Internet Law,” which allows regulators to cut off international connectivity.
Critics, including human rights organizations, view these moves as a way for the Kremlin to censor content, monitor citizens, and suppress dissent. This latest restriction also coincides with the promotion of a new, state-backed messaging app called MAX.
Modeled after China’s WeChat, MAX is designed as a one-stop platform for messaging, government services, and payments. A new law requires its pre-installation on all smartphones sold in Russia, and its terms of service allow for user data to be shared with authorities upon request.
Company Responses and User Impact
Both WhatsApp and Telegram have pushed back against the Russian government’s claims. WhatsApp, owned by Meta (which is labeled as an “extremist” company in Russia, though WhatsApp itself was spared), has highlighted that its service uses end-to-end encryption and defies government attempts to violate secure communication. Telegram stated that it actively combats the misuse of its platform and uses AI tools to remove harmful content.
Despite these assurances, users across Russia have reported issues with making calls on both apps, experiencing problems with connections and poor audio quality. As a result, telecom operators have reported a significant increase in traditional phone call traffic as users revert to older communication methods.
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