Free communication through Telegram and WhatsApp calls for Russians is now prohibited
Russia has implemented strict regulations on voice and video call platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp, as part of the country's "sovereign internet" policies. These measures, aimed at monitoring, restricting, or partially blocking calling features, are in response to foreign messaging apps that do not fully cooperate with law enforcement or share user data, which are accused of being used for criminal and terrorist activities.
The regulations require foreign messaging platforms to share user information with law enforcement for investigations into fraud, extortion, and sabotage. They also mandate the use of technological means, such as equipment forced on Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and throttling/blocking calls on non-compliant apps, under the "sovereign internet" law, effective since 2019. This law facilitates state censorship and control.
In addition, Russia is promoting a domestic state-controlled app called Max, which integrates messaging, social media, and payment services, aiming to replace foreign platforms.
As a result, voice and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp have been partially blocked and throttled, making calling functionality unreliable or impossible for many users. Users are increasingly resorting to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access calling features, although this can be inconsistent and is subject to additional government restrictions on VPN services.
Messaging (text and voice notes) largely remains functional, but the crackdown contributes to a fractured and censored internet environment where foreign apps work with limitations or risk full blocking. The increased reliance on government-approved platforms exposes users to enhanced surveillance and reduced privacy, as domestic apps comply with Russian data disclosure laws.
The decision to restrict calls is aimed at reducing the number of fraudulent calls, according to Roskomnadzor. The Ministry of Digital Development has stated that access to calls will be restored if the platforms comply with Russian legislation. If calls are unstable or unavailable locally, users can use regular voice calls with operators, corporate solutions with Russian infrastructure, or alternative messengers without regional restrictions.
Since 11 August, users have reported disruptions in calls. For video communication, services with web access through a browser and Russian cloud platforms work more stably. The restrictions are due to widespread use by fraudsters and for illegal recruitment.
In conclusion, these regulatory requirements severely constrain secure and private voice/video communication on Telegram and WhatsApp within Russia, degrading user experience and driving a shift towards a government-monitored digital ecosystem.
- The "sovereign internet" law in Russia, implemented since 2019, mandates technology that forces Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to throttle or block calling features on non-compliant messaging apps.
- Russia is promoting a domestic state-controlled app called Max, integrating messaging, social media, and payment services, aiming to replace foreign platforms and control general-news dissemination.
- These regulations, aimed at monitoring and controlling technology on social-media and messaging platforms, have led to a reduction in entertainment (voice and video calls) options for Russian users, as secure and private communication faces severe restrictions within the country.
