New Delhi: Russia has taken a major step towards eliminating dependence on foreign messaging apps. The government has announced that the use of the new domestic messaging app 'MAX' will be mandatory for all government officials from September 1, 2025. This decision has been taken keeping in mind data security and the protection of national interests.
Why is the MAX app being introduced to replace WhatsApp?
Since the Ukraine war, Russia has adopted a strict stance against US tech companies. Meta, which operates services like WhatsApp and Facebook, has already been declared an 'extremist organization' by Russia.
According to reports, around 68% of people in Russia use WhatsApp daily. Now, the government does not want government officials to communicate on foreign platforms. Therefore, a local and fully controlled messaging platform, MAX, is being adopted so that data remains secure within the country and sensitive information does not reach external forces.
What is the MAX app and who created it?
The MAX app has been developed by VK, a well-known Russian tech company. VK is the same company that also runs the 'VK Video' platform, which is Russia's version of YouTube. VK was founded by Pavel Durov, who later became the founder of Telegram.
However, the MAX app is not a traditional messaging platform like WhatsApp or Telegram. This app gives the government the ability to deeply monitor users. It has complete access to information such as the camera, microphone, location, files, and contacts. In addition, this app can fully access the device in the background, which has further increased privacy concerns.
When will MAX be implemented?
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued an order that all government officials must mandatorily use the MAX app from September 1, 2025. Along with this, Russia has also planned to ban foreign apps that are linked to countries that have imposed economic or political sanctions on Russia. This step is seen as moving towards further strengthening Russia's Digital Sovereignty.
What are the privacy concerns?
Technical experts and human rights organizations have expressed deep concern about the MAX app. Several reports claim that this app could become a type of spyware. It monitors every step of the user and can send private data to VK's servers, which are allegedly linked to Russian security agencies. This raises serious questions about the freedom and privacy of citizens.
Will WhatsApp and Telegram also be banned?
Russia has already banned social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Now, there are indications that WhatsApp may also be completely banned soon. Meanwhile, Telegram, which is also a Russian-origin app but now operates completely independently, has also come under the government's radar because it does not fully comply with Russian data rules.
