Russia Bans WhatsApp, Pushes State-Backed MAX Messaging App
Authorities blocked WhatsApp and directed citizens to preinstalled MAX, which lacks end-to-end encryption and shares data with security services.
Overview
Russian authorities blocked WhatsApp on Thursday and removed it from the registry, directing citizens to use MAX, a state-backed messenger that developers say will be preinstalled on new devices and lacks end-to-end encryption.
The ban follows a broader Kremlin campaign since 2022 to restrict foreign social media and communications platforms after authorities accused companies of failing to comply with Russian law, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
Human rights groups including Amnesty International said the move is a transparent attempt to expand surveillance and curb free speech, a position echoed by WhatsApp which said authorities sought to drive over 100 million users to a surveillance app.
Roskomnadzor announced new restrictions on Telegram earlier this week and has in recent months limited calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, a series of actions marked by conflicting accounts between officials and users who report continued access via VPNs.
Technology experts warned that MAX’s lack of end-to-end encryption and stated willingness to hand over user data to authorities would erode privacy, and WhatsApp said it is pursuing technical measures while users seek VPN workarounds.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the WhatsApp ban as part of an authoritarian internet crackdown by emphasizing government motives, surveillance risks, and past censorship, using evaluative descriptors and selective context. They foreground experts and company statements while downplaying state justifications, and highlight consequences (e.g., forced migration to MAX) to shape a rights-and-security narrative.
Sources (6)
FAQ
MAX is a state-backed Russian multifunction app launched in 2025 that includes messaging, e-commerce, and access to government services like medical and municipal appointments. It lacks end-to-end encryption and can share user data with authorities after legal assessment, and is preinstalled on new devices sold in Russia.[1]
Russia banned WhatsApp due to its failure to comply with Russian law, as stated by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. This is part of a broader campaign since 2022 to restrict foreign platforms.
WhatsApp stated that Russia attempted to fully block the service to drive over 100 million users to a state-owned surveillance app, calling it a backwards step that reduces safety and privacy. They are pursuing technical measures to keep users connected.[1]
Users report continued access to WhatsApp and Telegram via VPNs despite restrictions, while authorities have limited calls on these apps.[story]
Human rights groups like Amnesty International and technology experts criticize MAX for lacking end-to-end encryption and sharing data with security services, seeing it as a tool for surveillance and curbing free speech.[story][1]
History
3 sources