From PC Mag: WhatsApp no longer works in Russia after a government crackdown, allegedly aimed at pushing users to a state-backed alternative called Max.
Meta's app was removed from Russia's internet regulator's online directory on Feb. 11, with the service abruptly halting for users days after rival Telegram began experiencing a slowdown in the country.
A spokesperson for Meta told the Financial Times, “Today the Russian government has attempted to fully block WhatsApp in an effort to drive users to a state-owned surveillance app. Trying to isolate over 100mn people from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia.”
In comments to the BBC, a Kremlin spokesperson said Meta would be allowed to resume operations if it “complies with [the law] and enters into dialogue” with the government. Russia has previously designated Meta as an organization involved in "extremist activities", banning Facebook and Instagram in 2022. WhatsApp was exempt from that ban.
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