Russia has blocked WhatsApp nationwide, citing legal violations by parent company Meta and urging citizens to switch to the state backed Max messaging platform, according to the Kremlin. Officials said the move enforces national law and promotes a domestic alternative.
The action follows new restrictions on Telegram and a broader campaign to replace foreign social media with Russian controlled services.
Authorities have also limited VPN access and banned advertising tools that bypass online blocks. Russia previously outlawed Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Meta-owned messaging app says Russia is attempting to fully block WhatsApp in the country pic.twitter.com/BF5g22SAke
— TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) February 12, 2026
Max is being preinstalled on new devices and designed as an all in one app linked to government services. Critics warn of privacy risks and surveillance potential, while Moscow argues tighter control is needed to combat crime and extremism.
WhatsApp said the ban would isolate users from secure communications, but some Russians continue accessing the service through restricted VPN networks.
The crackdown underscores the Kremlin’s push for digital sovereignty and tighter information control.
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TIPP Staff
