Russia Restricts Telegram, WhatsApp Calls Over Law Enforcement Disputes

Russia has begun restricting voice calls on Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing the platforms of failing to cooperate with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism investigations, the digital development ministry said Wednesday.

The move is part of a broader effort by Moscow to assert control over the country’s internet infrastructure and promote domestic alternatives to foreign-owned platforms.

The restrictions, which began on Aug. 11, affect only voice calls. Telegram calls have barely functioned, while WhatsApp calls have been disrupted by intermittent sound and a metallic buzzing, according to Reuters reporters.

Communications regulator Roskomnadzor said the partial restrictions were aimed at countering criminal activity. No other features of the apps have been limited.

The ministry said both platforms had ignored repeated requests to prevent their use in illegal activities. The restrictions will be lifted if the companies comply with Russian law.

Compliance includes opening legal entities in Russia, fully adhering to Russian regulations, and cooperating with Roskomnadzor and law enforcement, said Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the lower house of parliament’s information technology committee.

Telegram told Russia’s RBC daily that it was actively removing malicious content using AI tools and moderators. It said it was resisting calls for violence and fraud on its platform.

Meta Platforms, which owns WhatsApp, did not respond to requests for comment. Russia labelled Meta an extremist organisation in 2022, though WhatsApp has remained available in the country.

Gorelkin previously said WhatsApp should prepare to exit the Russian market. Another lawmaker called the app’s continued presence a threat to national security.

President Vladimir Putin has backed the development of a state-run messaging app integrated with government services. The initiative is part of Russia’s push for digital sovereignty and reduced reliance on foreign platforms.

Critics have raised concerns that the new state-backed app could be used to monitor users. Some have suggested that Russia may intentionally slow WhatsApp’s performance to encourage migration to the domestic alternative.

Human Rights Watch reported last month that Russia is expanding its technological capabilities to block and throttle access to websites and tools used to bypass censorship.

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• Russia restricts Telegram and WhatsApp calls, citing law enforcement noncompliance

• Restrictions began Aug. 11 and affect only voice calls

• Telegram says it removes harmful content using AI and moderators

Source: REUTERS