Russia Restricts WhatsApp and Telegram Calls, Citing Security and Anti-Fraud Measures.

On Wednesday, Russia announced restrictions on voice calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram, citing the need to combat criminal activities, according to state media reports.

The country’s communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, stated that the move targets foreign messaging apps being used for fraud, extortion, and recruiting Russian citizens for subversive or terrorist purposes.

Russian authorities have repeatedly accused Ukraine of using Telegram for sabotage and recruitment efforts within Russia.

Officials want messaging platforms to provide access to user data when requested by law enforcement not only for fraud investigations but also for cases Russia categorizes as terrorism.

Russia’s digital ministry said the restrictions would be lifted once the apps begin complying with national laws.

Telegram responded by saying it actively removes harmful content, including incitements to violence or sabotage, and eliminates millions of such posts daily.

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, emphasized that its service is end-to-end encrypted and designed to protect user privacy  a stance that the Russian government opposes.

A WhatsApp spokesperson told AFP that the platform’s resistance to government intrusion is likely the reason behind the ban, suggesting it’s part of a broader attempt to steer users toward services more open to state surveillance. Over 100 million Russians rely on WhatsApp for messaging and calling.