Russia has partially restricted voice calling on WhatsApp and Telegram. According to government agencies, these platforms are being used for fraud, extortion, and terrorist activities. The calling service will only be restored when the companies provide data access under Russian law.
Tech News: Russia announced a new restriction on calling features on popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram on Wednesday. According to Russia's communications watchdog agency Roskomnadzor, foreign messaging apps have become 'primary voice services' that are being used for fraud, extortion, and involving citizens in terrorist activities in the country. This is why Russia has taken the step to compel these apps to share data in accordance with the law.
Concerns of Security Agencies
Russian security agencies say that in recent times, Telegram and WhatsApp have been used by Ukraine-linked networks to recruit citizens in Russia or involve them in sabotage and other illegal activities. Agencies believe that incidents of fraud and extortion have increased due to the calling feature.
The government also says that these apps should provide necessary data for investigations not only in cases of fraud but also in cases related to terrorism. The ban on the calling feature will continue until this data is shared.
New Step by Roskomnadzor
Roskomnadzor stated that a 'partial calling restriction' has been implemented on foreign messaging apps. This means that text messaging and other features will remain active, but voice calling will only be available to a limited extent. The agency also clarified that the calling service will only be fully restored when the apps comply with Russian laws and provide data access.
Response from Telegram and WhatsApp
Telegram told AFP in this matter that it is constantly dealing with the misuse of the platform. The company claims that it removes millions of pieces of harmful content from the platform every day. Telegram said that monitoring is constantly being done to prevent activities such as sabotage, promoting violence, and fraud.
WhatsApp's parent company, Meta, has not yet issued an official statement on this restriction. However, Meta has previously taken a firm stance on the matter of sharing user data with governments on several occasions.
Tightening of Online Freedom in Russia
Since the start of the military operation in Ukraine, Russia has tightened its control over press freedom and online expression in the country. The government is increasing monitoring of social media platforms and messaging apps to prevent illegal and dangerous content. Experts believe that the purpose of this ban is not only security but also to strengthen the government's control over digital platforms.
What will be the impact on general users in Russia?
- WhatsApp and Telegram users in Russia will be able to use the calling feature to a limited extent.
- Messaging, text, and other standard features will still be active.
- Apps will be required to provide data access in accordance with Russian law to restore the calling service.
Experts say that this step is part of the growing conflict between global digital platforms and national security agencies. Such a decision can have a major impact on users' privacy and freedom of online communication.
