Preparations to shut down WhatsApp in this country, over 100 million users at risk

Moscow (The Uttam Hindu):  Tensions between the Russian government and the world’s most popular messaging app WhatsApp have reached a critical stage. WhatsApp has recently revealed that Russian authorities are attempting to completely disrupt its services in the country. Experts say this move is part of Russia’s stricter digital policy. A major objective behind this step is to promote Russia’s own government-backed app ‘MAX’ and reduce dependence on foreign applications. WhatsApp has strongly criticised the move and stated that it will make every possible technical effort to keep users connected.

The Russian government has been tightening its control over foreign technology companies for some time. Earlier, authorities banned Meta-owned platforms Facebook and Instagram in the country and significantly slowed down YouTube services. In the latest development, Russia’s communications regulator Roskomnadzor has removed WhatsApp from the country’s internet “online directory”. Due to this technical action, users are facing serious difficulties in accessing the app. While WhatsApp has not been completely shut down yet, its services have been restricted and are not functioning properly in several regions.

WhatsApp has a massive user base in Russia. Reports suggest that more than 100 million users use the app daily. In Russia, WhatsApp is not only used for personal communication but also plays a key role in group chats, media sharing, and business communication. If the app is fully blocked, millions of users will face major disruption and will be forced to look for alternative platforms.

Clarifying its position, the Russian government said that WhatsApp will have to comply with local laws and engage with authorities if it wants to operate normally in the country again. If Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, does not agree to follow Russian regulations, the chances of the app’s return remain very low. This action is not sudden, as earlier the government had restricted voice call services on WhatsApp and Telegram, and in 2025, the regulator had also issued warnings related to data-sharing concerns.