Russia Intensifies WhatsApp Crackdown Amid Digital Sovereignty Push

Russian Regulator Slows WhatsApp, Faces Legal Challenge

Russian authorities have escalated their campaign against foreign messaging platforms, with the state communications regulator Roskomnadzor implementing technical restrictions that significantly slow WhatsApp's performance across the country. The measures, which began affecting users on December 23, 2025, represent the latest chapter in Russia's ongoing efforts to control digital communications and promote domestic alternatives.

WhatsApp has formally complained about the restrictions, accusing Russian authorities of attempting to 'deprive over 100 million Russians of private communication' according to a company spokesperson quoted by Reuters. The platform warned that forcing users onto less secure government-mandated apps could compromise citizen safety.

Legal Battle and User Resistance

A group of 42 WhatsApp and Telegram users has filed a class-action lawsuit against Roskomnadzor and the Digital Development Ministry, arguing that the restrictions violate constitutional rights to freedom of information and communication secrecy. The lawsuit, filed in Moscow's Tagansky District Court, challenges restrictions on voice and video calls that began in August 2025.

'WhatsApp is deeply embedded in every community in the country,' the company stated, emphasizing its commitment to fighting for user rights. The legal action comes as thousands of Russians reported outages and slowdowns, with most complaints originating from Moscow according to Russian outage tracking sites.

Push for Domestic Alternative: MAX Messenger

The restrictions coincide with Russia's aggressive promotion of MAX, a state-backed messaging app developed by VK (controlled by state energy company Gazprom). Launched in March 2025, MAX has grown to over 18 million registered accounts but faces significant public resistance despite government mandates requiring its pre-installation on all devices sold in Russia starting September 1, 2025.

According to The Moscow Times, MAX aims to become a 'super-app' integrating government services, but has faced criticism over security vulnerabilities and privacy concerns. Unlike WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption, MAX does not appear to use similar protections, potentially allowing server access to message contents.

Broader Internet Control Campaign

Roskomnadzor, Russia's federal agency for communications oversight established in 2008, has been systematically restricting foreign platforms since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat already face blocks, while YouTube experiences severe disruptions. The regulator claims these measures combat fraud and terrorism, though critics argue they represent digital censorship.

'This is naturally done to increase security,' wrote Belgorod region governor Vyacheslav Gladkov about internet restrictions in border areas, while acknowledging they disrupt communication infrastructure. His Telegram channel, used for crisis warnings about Ukrainian drone attacks, now includes references to MAX as authorities push migration to domestic platforms.

VPN Usage Skyrockets

As restrictions tighten, VPN adoption has surged among Russian internet users. Independent Russian news site Meduza reported that over 90% of its readers use VPNs, with most opting for paid services. A quarter of respondents identified the ban on WhatsApp and Telegram calls as their biggest frustration.

The technical restrictions work by slowing data transmission speeds for WhatsApp traffic, making the app frustratingly slow but not completely inaccessible. This 'throttling' approach represents a middle ground between full blocking and unrestricted access, allowing authorities to pressure users while maintaining some functionality.

International Implications and Future Outlook

The WhatsApp restrictions occur amid broader tensions between Russia and Western technology companies. Roskomnadzor has threatened complete blocking if WhatsApp doesn't comply with Russian laws regarding data sharing with authorities. The regulator claims the platform is used to organize terrorist acts and commit fraud, though Russian Central Bank data indicates traditional phone calls and texts remain primary fraud channels.

As Russia continues its digital sovereignty push, the battle over messaging platforms highlights fundamental tensions between state control and digital freedom. With both legal challenges and technical workarounds like VPNs proliferating, Russian authorities face an ongoing struggle to reshape the country's digital landscape while citizens seek to maintain access to global communication tools.