Russia is preparing to restrict WhatsApp. It will be replaced by the state-owned MAX app

Russian authorities are preparing to restrict the operation of WhatsApp messenger in the country. This was stated by State Duma deputy Anton Gorelkin, who oversees the IT sector, writes Reuters.
In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law that allows for the creation of a state messenger with integrated public services. It should reduce dependence on foreign platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram.
The new app, called MAX, is being developed by the state-controlled VK company. The authorities assume that it will replace WhatsApp, which is used by about 68% of Russians every day.
"The presence of such services in Russia's digital space is, in fact, a legal violation of national security," commented Anton Nemkin, another member of the State Duma IT Committee.
Meta Platforms, which owns WhatsApp, has been recognized as "extremist" in Russia. Its social networks Facebook and Instagram have been banned since 2022, after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
In addition, the Russian parliament has recently passed amendments to legislation that provide for fines even for searching for "extremist materials" on the Internet. This, in particular, applies to the pages of oppositionists or services banned in Russia.
Some observers in Russia fear that the new state messenger MAX may be spying on users. There is also speculation that the authorities will deliberately slow down WhatsApp to encourage a switch to their own platform.
According to the Russian president's instructions, by September 1, the government is to impose additional restrictions on the use of software from countries that have imposed sanctions on Russia. WhatsApp is likely to be included in this list.
- In December 2024, in Russia blocked the VIber messenger.
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