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Russia announced restrictions on communications via WhatsApp and Telegram on Wednesday, saying that these measures are essential for combating criminal activities, according to state media reports.
“In order to combat criminals, measures are being taken to partially restrict calls on these foreign messaging apps (WhatsApp and Telegram),” communications watchdog Roskomnadzor said, as quoted by the RIA and TASS news agencies.
The messenger apps have become “the main voice services used for fraud and extortion, and for involving Russian citizens in subversive and terrorist activities,” the watchdog added.
Russian security agencies have often claimed that Ukraine is using Telegram for recruitment and to carry out acts of sabotage within Russia.
Moscow demands that these messaging services provide access to user data upon law enforcement requests, not only for investigations related to fraud but also for inquiries into what Russia categorises as terrorist actions.
Since the commencement of its offensive in Ukraine, Russia has significantly limited press freedom and online expression.
