Russia Partially Blocks WhatsApp, Telegram Calls in Latest Internet Crackdown

Russian authorities on Wednesday announced “partial” restrictions on voice calls made through Telegram and WhatsApp, citing crime prevention and national security.

State media regulator Roskomnadzor claimed both foreign messaging apps are being used to commit fraud, extort money, and recruit Russians for sabotage and terrorism, and accused their owners of ignoring repeated requests to take countermeasures. The restrictions apply only to audio calls.

WhatsApp, which has over 96 million monthly users in Russia, said it resists government efforts to undermine secure communications, accusing Moscow of trying to block it from more than 100 million people. Telegram, with 89 million users, has not yet commented.

The move marks the latest step in Russia’s years-long push to tighten Internet control through restrictive laws, platform bans, and advanced traffic monitoring. Authorities have also targeted VPNs, imposed widespread mobile Internet shutdowns, and begun developing a heavily monitored “national” messaging app, MAX, to replace foreign platforms.

MAX — backed by Russian tech firm VK and mandated for preinstallation on all smartphones — promises messaging, payments, and government services, but shares user data with authorities. It has over 2 million registered users.

Roskomnadzor said call access could be restored if WhatsApp and Telegram comply with Russian law.