Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed the government to develop measures by September 1, 2025, to restrict the use of foreign software, focusing especially on messaging apps from so-called “unfriendly countries.”
This was reported by the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine.
WhatsApp, owned by Meta (which Russia has labeled an extremist organization), is a prime candidate for blocking under these new rules. Telegram’s future remains uncertain despite its Russian origins, as its founder’s refusal to fully cooperate with authorities casts doubt on its status.
Meanwhile, Russian officials have been ordered to switch to Max messenger, developed by VK—a company closely linked to Russian security services. Max has extensive access to device features like the microphone, camera, contacts, and location, and cannot be disabled through standard means. It reportedly uses system-level permissions typical of malware, automatically sending data to VK-controlled servers.
This move is part of Russia’s broader effort to increase digital sovereignty by promoting domestic software and limiting foreign technology, raising concerns about expanded government surveillance and reduced access to global communication platforms.
