WhatsApp Faces Possible Block In Russia, Says Regulator Roskomnadzor

Russia’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, warned on Friday that it could completely block WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, if the service does not follow Russian legislation.

Earlier in August, Russia began limiting certain WhatsApp and Telegram calls, citing refusal to provide user information to law enforcement for fraud and terrorism investigations. Roskomnadzor said WhatsApp has continued to fail in meeting requirements designed to prevent and combat crime, and added that complete blockage could follow if compliance is not achieved. WhatsApp has accused Russian authorities of trying to block millions of users from secure communication. Meanwhile, Russian authorities are promoting a state-backed alternative app called MAX, which has raised privacy concerns among critics, though state media has dismissed these claims as false. The situation reflects increasing regulatory pressure on foreign messaging platforms in Russia.