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Russia Mandates Max: Controversial Surveillance Tool on Phones

10/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

VKontakte (VK) has introduced Max, a surveillance tool mandatory on all new phones sold in Russia as of September 1.
Max enables messaging, file sharing, and banking transactions, seeking to centralize services like WeChat.
The Kremlin's push extends to occupied Ukrainian territories, where students must use Max, risking privacy invasions and disruption of essential services for millions.

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Story summary

VKontakte (VK) has introduced Max, a surveillance tool mandatory on all new phones sold in Russia as of September 1.
Max enables messaging, file sharing, and banking transactions, seeking to centralize services like WeChat.
The Kremlin's push extends to occupied Ukrainian territories, where students must use Max, risking privacy invasions and disruption of essential services for millions.