Russia blocks calls via WhatsApp and Telegram – allegedly due to fraud cases

The Russian regulatory authority Roskomnadzor has confirmed that it will continue to partially block access to WhatsApp and Telegram services, with the measures relating in particular to voice calls, reports the Interfax news agency.

The authority cites recommendations from the security services, which claim that these foreign platforms are often used for fraud, extortion, and recruiting citizens for acts of sabotage or terrorism.

Roskomnadzor emphasized that the owners of the applications had ignored repeated requests for cooperation from the Russian authorities.

The restrictions were already introduced in August and, according to the authorities, have led to a 40 percent drop in fraudulent calls.

The authorities also warned of possible abuse of the domestic platform Max, which could also be regulated if evidence of misuse is confirmed.

(mja)