Russia has warned that it may impose a full ban on the messaging platform WhatsApp, accusing the service of failing to comply with national legislation.
Roskomnadzor, the country’s communications regulator, claimed the platform is being used to “organise and carry out terrorist acts, recruit perpetrators, and facilitate fraud and other criminal activity” targeting Russian citizens. The watchdog stated that if WhatsApp does not adhere to Russian legal requirements, it will be “completely blocked”.
The warning follows previous restrictions imposed in August, when Russian authorities prevented WhatsApp users from making calls via the app, part of a broader strategy to limit access to Western-owned social media and communication platforms.
The move reflects escalating pressure on foreign digital services operating in Russia, as the government continues to tighten control over online information flows and enforce stricter regulatory compliance.
