Russia Blocks WhatsApp and Telegram Voice Calls Over Security Dispute
Russia has partially restricted voice calling features on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing the platforms’ refusal to share user data with law enforcement in investigations involving fraud and terrorism.
The state communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, announced the move on Monday, saying the measure is aimed at curbing criminal activity. While text messaging and other features remain unaffected, officials said call access will only be restored once the companies comply with Russian laws. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
The restrictions appear to be the latest chapter in Moscow’s tense standoff with global tech giants — a conflict that has deepened since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Critics argue that the Kremlin is using such actions to expand control over the internet and promote “digital sovereignty” through state-approved platforms.
President Vladimir Putin has already authorised the creation of a government-integrated messaging service to reduce reliance on foreign technology.
Platform Responses
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, defended its position, stating that the app is end-to-end encrypted and designed to protect user privacy from government surveillance. Telegram also denied negligence, claiming it removes millions of harmful posts daily, including those related to fraud and violence.
Impact of the Ban
Reports indicate Telegram calls have been largely unusable since 11 August, while WhatsApp calls suffer from severe audio disruptions and metallic noises.
Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the State Duma’s IT committee, said the companies must establish legal entities in Russia and work directly with regulators and law enforcement to have the restrictions lifted.
Meta was labelled an extremist organisation in Russia in 2022, though WhatsApp had previously avoided a ban despite repeated fines over banned content.