Partial limitations imposed on calling services for Telegram and WhatsApp in Russia
In a move aimed at countering criminals, partial call restrictions have been imposed on foreign messaging platforms Telegram and WhatsApp in Russia. According to Roskomnadzor's press service, these messengers are primarily used for fraud, extortion, and involving Russians in subversive and terrorist activities.
The restrictions are a continuation of measures being taken by Russia to tighten digital control. The authorities have linked the move to broader efforts to promote the Kremlin-backed messaging app Max, which is positioned as a safer, state-approved alternative offering secure messaging consistent with government oversight.
Specifically, calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram are being partially blocked based on "law enforcement agencies' materials". These measures mostly affect calls connecting app users to landline and mobile numbers within Russia, while direct app-to-app calls currently remain unaffected.
Roskomnadzor has stated that foreign messengers are not ensuring the safety of Russian users and society. Repeated demands for countermeasures from the messenger owners have been ignored, according to Roskomnadzor.
However, it's important to note that the call restrictions do not affect the overall functionality of Telegram and WhatsApp. As a result of the "Antifraud" system, which blocks calls with number spoofing in Russian telecom networks, calls with spoofed numbers have shifted to foreign messengers.
The objective of the restrictions is to counter criminals, as these apps reportedly facilitate deceitful calls that evade domestic security controls and regulations. In summary, the partial call restrictions serve the government's stated goal of mitigating fraud, extortion, terrorism, and subversive activities facilitated through these platforms, while also advancing state control over digital communication.
Cybersecurity concerns have led the Russian authorities to partially block calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, as they deem these foreign messengers to be inadequate in ensuring the safety of Russian users and society. The government is promoting the Kremlin-backed messaging app Max, which promises secure messaging consistent with government oversight, as a stepped-up measure to tighten digital control and counter cyber threats.
