Story perspectives

Russia Cracks Down: FaceTime, Roblox Blocked Amid Security Concerns

12/4/2025

Summary

Story summary

Roskomnadzor has imposed restrictions on FaceTime, alleging the service is used to organize terrorist activities.
The regulator has blocked messaging apps including WhatsApp and Telegram, citing criminal activity.
The government promotes MAX, a national messaging app that lacks end-to-end encryption and shares user data with authorities.
Roblox has been blocked to protect children from illicit content.
Experts warn the regulations could extend to other platforms.

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Story summary

Roskomnadzor has imposed restrictions on FaceTime, alleging the service is used to organize terrorist activities.
The regulator has blocked messaging apps including WhatsApp and Telegram, citing criminal activity.
The government promotes MAX, a national messaging app that lacks end-to-end encryption and shares user data with authorities.
Roblox has been blocked to protect children from illicit content.
Experts warn the regulations could extend to other platforms.