Story perspectives

Russia Threatens WhatsApp Ban Over Compliance Issues

11/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

Roskomnadzor, Russia's state communications watchdog, warned it could block WhatsApp if the service fails to comply with Russian law.
Authorities have limited calls on WhatsApp and Telegram and accuse them of withholding information from law enforcement on fraud and terrorism.
If non-compliance continues, a complete ban on WhatsApp could follow.
Russian officials promote a state-backed MAX app, which critics say could enable tracking, a claim state media have dismissed.

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Story summary

Roskomnadzor, Russia's state communications watchdog, warned it could block WhatsApp if the service fails to comply with Russian law.
Authorities have limited calls on WhatsApp and Telegram and accuse them of withholding information from law enforcement on fraud and terrorism.
If non-compliance continues, a complete ban on WhatsApp could follow.
Russian officials promote a state-backed MAX app, which critics say could enable tracking, a claim state media have dismissed.