is whatsapp banned in russia
WhatsApp call restrictions imposed in Russia spark global debate.
Is WhatsApp Banned in Russia? The Truth Behind the Restrictions
Is WhatsApp banned in Russia? That’s the question millions are asking after the Russian government announced strict limits on WhatsApp’s voice and video calls. The decision, revealed on August 13, 2025, also applies to similar services on Telegram.
According to the Ministry of Digital Development, the move is aimed at combating criminal activities and enhancing national security. Officials claim that encrypted messaging services have been misused for illegal purposes, and restricting calls will help curb such activities.
Critics argue this is less about fighting crime and more about increasing control over internet communications.
Impact on Russian Users
With over 70 million WhatsApp users in Russia, these restrictions disrupt how people communicate with friends, family, and colleagues. Many rely on WhatsApp for cheap international calling, so the ban on voice and video features is a significant inconvenience.
Some analysts predict a rise in VPN usage as users try to bypass the blocks, while others believe domestic apps will see a boost in popularity.
WhatsApp and Telegram’s Response
Neither WhatsApp nor Telegram has issued a full statement yet. However, both companies have historically stood by their end-to-end encryption policies, which often clash with government demands for greater access to user data.
For more details, read this NDTV report on Russia’s WhatsApp and Telegram restrictions.
📌 Related Read: Meta’s New Privacy Policy Sparks Global Debate
