Russia’s communications regulator has warned it may completely block WhatsApp if the messaging platform fails to comply with local laws, according to reports on Friday.
The threat follows earlier restrictions introduced in August, when Russia began limiting certain WhatsApp and Telegram calls. Authorities accused the foreign-owned platforms of refusing to share information with law enforcement in cases related to fraud and terrorism.
On Friday, Roskomnadzor, Russia’s state communications watchdog, reiterated that WhatsApp has not met Russian legal requirements aimed at preventing and combating crime.
“If the messaging service continues to fail to meet the demands of Russian legislation, it will be completely blocked,” Interfax news agency quoted the watchdog as saying.
WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, has responded by accusing Moscow of attempting to cut off millions of Russians from secure communication channels.
Meanwhile, Russian authorities are promoting a state-backed messaging app called MAX as an alternative. Critics have raised concerns that the app could be used to track users, though state media have dismissed such claims as unfounded.
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