Russia Threatens Total Ban on WhatsApp Over Compliance Issues

Russia's communications watchdog has warned it might completely block WhatsApp if the platform fails to adhere to local laws. This follows August's restrictions on WhatsApp and Telegram for not sharing information in legal cases. Critics argue Russian authorities are promoting a state-backed app, MAX, possibly for surveillance purposes.

Russia's state communications watchdog issued a stern warning on Friday, threatening to entirely block the messaging app WhatsApp if it does not comply with Russian legislation, according to reports by news agencies.

The warning follows actions taken in August when Russia began limiting certain functions on WhatsApp and Telegram, both owned by foreign entities, accusing these platforms of not cooperating with law enforcement in critical cases related to fraud and terrorism.

The Roskomnadzor watchdog reiterated its accusation that WhatsApp is not adhering to Russian legal requirements aimed at crime prevention. In response, WhatsApp has accused Moscow of attempting to cut off millions of Russians from secure communications, while authorities are seen promoting a state-supported app called MAX, which critics suggest could be used for user surveillance. State media have dismissed these accusations as fabrications.

(With inputs from agencies.)