Russia Imposes New Limits on WhatsApp and Telegram Calls Citing Security Concerns
In a fresh move targeting encrypted messaging platforms, Russian authorities have tightened restrictions on voice calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram. This development is part of an ongoing government effort to clamp down on social media services following bans on numerous Western networks within the country.
According to Russia’s official news agency RIA Novosti, the Federal Communications Oversight agency announced these measures aimed at combating criminal activities that exploit foreign messaging tools. The restrictions specifically target voice calling features in WhatsApp and Telegram, which Russian officials accuse of facilitating scams and enabling Russian citizens’ involvement in acts of sabotage and terrorism.
Government Demands Access to Messaging Data Under Expanded Legal Authority
Moscow's regulatory framework now requires messaging platforms to grant law enforcement agencies access to user data upon request—not just for fraud investigations, but also concerning activities categorized as terrorism by the government. Russian digital technology authorities made it clear that the lifting of restrictions on calls will only occur if these services comply fully with the nation’s stringent cybersecurity laws.
Telegram, responding to these developments, stated to AFP that it actively combats misuse of its platform, including calls for sabotage, violence, and fraudulent schemes, and that it removes millions of harmful posts daily. Despite these assurances, the tightening clampdown reflects Moscow’s ongoing struggle to control fast-evolving digital communication spaces.
Broader Context: Increasing Internet Censorship and Freedom Restrictions in Russia
This recent clampdown aligns with broader legal changes, such as President Vladimir Putin’s late-July enactment of laws further restricting freedom of expression online. These new rules criminalize searching for extremist content and ban promoting virtual private networks (VPNs)—widely used tools to circumvent state censorship in Russia.
Since 2024, YouTube is accessible to Russian users primarily through VPNs, following prior bans on Facebook and Instagram in 2022, both platforms labeled as extremist. These cumulative actions illustrate the Russian government's sustained effort to insulate the domestic internet from foreign influence and tighten control over digital communication channels.