Russia Restricts WhatsApp, Telegram Calls Amid Tightening Internet Controls
Russia Restricts WhatsApp, Telegram Calls Amid Tightening Internet Controls
In a fresh move to tighten its grip over the digital space, Russian authorities have imposed new restrictions on voice calling features available through the popular messaging platforms WhatsApp and Telegram. The decision, which is already affecting millions of users across the country, reflects the government’s escalating efforts to monitor and control online communication.
The restrictions, announced by Russia’s media and internet watchdog Roskomnadzor, specifically target voice calls but have also reportedly disrupted video call functions for many users. According to figures from media analytics group Mediascope, WhatsApp boasts around 96 million monthly users in Russia, while Telegram is used by over 89 million people — highlighting the vast impact of this decision.
Roskomnadzor defended the restrictions by pointing to concerns raised by law enforcement and the public, claiming that criminals frequently exploit these platforms for scams, extortion, and even to coordinate sabotage or terrorist acts. The agency accused WhatsApp and Telegram of failing to take adequate action despite repeated warnings.
“Both messengers have become central tools for fraudulent schemes and for luring citizens into dangerous activities,” Roskomnadzor stated. “Law enforcement’s calls for cooperation have gone unanswered.”
At the heart of the issue is Moscow’s demand for compliance with Russian legislation, which includes granting access to user data upon official request. Roskomnadzor indicated that voice call functionality could be restored if the platforms agree to these terms.
The move comes as part of a broader push by the Kremlin to assert control over Russia’s digital landscape, especially since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022. Authorities have repeatedly linked Telegram to Ukrainian intelligence efforts, alleging the platform is used to recruit individuals and coordinate sabotage operations inside Russia.
In July, the Russian government passed a new law targeting users who search for or access online content deemed illegal by the state. At the same time, officials are advancing plans to roll out a domestic messaging platform called “Max” to replace foreign apps. Critics argue that such a platform would hand authorities sweeping access to user communications, further eroding digital privacy.
WhatsApp responded firmly to the clampdown, emphasizing its commitment to secure communication. “We continue to stand against any attempt to undermine private messaging. This is exactly why Russian authorities are trying to cut off more than 100 million users from WhatsApp,” a spokesperson said.
Telegram, meanwhile, released a statement to the AFP news agency reaffirming its ongoing efforts to moderate harmful content. The platform, created by Russian-born tech entrepreneur Pavel Durov, said it actively removes millions of posts daily that contain threats of violence or attempts at fraud.
Despite such assurances, Telegram has long faced criticism — not just in Russia but globally — over the ease with which bad actors have exploited the app’s features.
