Russia Attempts to Fully Block WhatsApp to Promote State Surveillance App, Meta Says

 

Meta-owned WhatsApp has accused the Russian government of attempting to completely block the popular messaging app in the country, describing the move as an effort to force over 100 million users toward a state-sponsored alternative.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp declared: “Today the Russian government attempted to fully block WhatsApp in an effort to drive people to a state-owned surveillance app. Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia. We continue to do everything we can to keep users connected.”

The company did not specify the exact nature or success of the blocking attempt, but reports indicate that millions of users in Russia experienced sudden disruptions to the service. This follows previous restrictions on features in WhatsApp and other apps like Telegram, amid ongoing tensions between Russia and foreign tech platforms since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Russian authorities have been actively promoting a home-grown messaging app called Max (sometimes referred to as MAX), positioned as a "national messenger." Critics, including WhatsApp, have labeled it a "state-owned surveillance app," raising concerns about user privacy and government oversight. State media have dismissed such claims.

The crackdown aligns with broader efforts by Russia's communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, to enforce local laws on data storage, content moderation, and cooperation with authorities—requirements that many foreign companies have resisted. Earlier reports from state-owned Tass suggested WhatsApp could face a permanent block in 2026 if compliance issues persist.

A Kremlin spokesperson, responding to related inquiries, indicated that any restoration of services would depend on Meta fulfilling Russian legislation and engaging in dialogue with authorities.

This development is part of an escalating pattern of internet controls in Russia, including prior slowdowns or restrictions on platforms like Telegram, Signal, and others accused of non-compliance or aiding activities deemed problematic by the state.

WhatsApp emphasized its commitment to user connectivity, but the long-term impact on Russian users remains unclear as technical workarounds (such as VPNs) are commonly used in the country to bypass restrictions.

The incident highlights growing geopolitical divides in digital infrastructure and the push by some governments for greater sovereignty over online communications.