Russia Blocks WhatsApp, Pushes Citizens Toward State-Backed Messenger

MOSCOW, Feb 12 (GeokHub) — Russia has fully blocked WhatsApp, the U.S.-based messaging app owned by Meta Platforms, citing the company’s failure to comply with local laws. Kremlin officials encouraged citizens to adopt MAX, a state-backed messenger, as an alternative.

“Due to Meta’s unwillingness to comply with Russian law, such a decision was indeed taken and implemented,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, adding that MAX is available on the market as a “national messenger” for Russian users.

WhatsApp Block Sparks Concern

WhatsApp, Russia’s most widely used messaging app, has faced six months of increasing pressure. Meta has criticized the move, saying it isolates over 100 million users from private and secure communication. “This is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia,” a company spokesperson said.

Following the block, several WhatsApp domain names disappeared from Russia’s national register, preventing devices from accessing the app unless a virtual private network (VPN) is used.

Mixed Public Reaction

Reactions in Moscow were varied. Some citizens accepted the change, noting alternative messaging apps, while others viewed it as a violation of constitutional rights.

“Frankly I see this as negative because it limits freedom of choice,” said a resident named Anna. Another, Alyona, said she would continue using WhatsApp via VPN for as long as possible before considering a switch to MAX.

Activists staged a brief protest outside Roskomnadzor, the state communications regulator, displaying a poster reading: “Give us an unregulated internet — Russia without Roskomnadzor.”

State Push for a Sovereign Internet

The WhatsApp block forms part of a broader Russian effort to create a sovereign communications infrastructure, requiring foreign tech companies to comply with local regulations or face restrictions. In recent years, Russia has restricted or blocked platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube.

Authorities claim MAX is designed to integrate government services, improve daily life, and comply with legal frameworks, though critics warn it could facilitate user surveillance.

Roskomnadzor began restricting WhatsApp in August 2025 after accusing the company of failing to provide information to authorities in fraud and terrorism cases. Courts have fined WhatsApp for not removing prohibited content, and regulators have demanded a local representative office to achieve compliance.

Since December, many Russians have resorted to VPNs or alternative messaging apps, though these, too, face regulatory pressure.

The move underscores Russia’s ongoing drive to control digital communication within its borders while promoting government-backed alternatives.