Russia announced on Friday that it is considering a complete ban on WhatsApp, accusing the Meta-owned messaging service of failing to curb criminal activity on its platform.
The move comes as Moscow intensifies efforts to steer citizens toward state-backed digital communication tools.
The warning was issued by Russia’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, which claimed that WhatsApp is being used to coordinate terrorist activities, recruit perpetrators, facilitate fraud and commit other offences against Russian citizens.
“If the messenger fails to comply with Russian legislation, it will be completely blocked,” the watchdog said.
This development follows Russia’s decision in August to block voice calls on WhatsApp—a step widely seen as part of the Kremlin’s broader crackdown on Western-owned digital platforms. Critics argue that the restrictions are designed to push Russians toward domestic alternatives where state access and surveillance can be more easily enforced.
Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, has not yet issued a response.
WhatsApp remains one of Russia’s most widely used messaging platforms, alongside Telegram. However, Moscow wants both services to grant law-enforcement agencies access to user data upon request, especially for cases involving alleged terrorism or fraud.
Human rights organisations warn that granting such access could further expand Russia’s surveillance apparatus and potentially be used to monitor or suppress dissent against President Vladimir Putin or criticism of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
