Russia’s state communications watchdog warned Friday that it may impose a full nationwide ban on WhatsApp if the platform fails to comply with Russian data and security laws, according to multiple Russian news agencies.
The regulator, Roskomnadzor, issued the threat amid escalating tensions between Moscow and foreign-owned tech platforms. In August, Russian authorities began restricting certain WhatsApp and Telegram calls, accusing both services of refusing to cooperate with law enforcement requests related to fraud and terrorism investigations.
WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, has been under increasing scrutiny since the Kremlin designated Meta an “extremist” organization in 2022. Although WhatsApp remains operational in Russia, officials have repeatedly demanded greater access to user information and encrypted communications—requirements Meta has historically resisted.
Roskomnadzor said a complete shutdown of the service remains possible if WhatsApp does not “bring its activities in line with Russian law.”
A full ban would affect tens of millions of Russians who rely on the app for daily communication. Meta has not yet publicly responded to the latest threat.
By DNU Staff