Khaberni - Russia stated today, Friday, that it is considering banning the popular messaging service "WhatsApp," accusing the application of not tackling crimes, at a time when Moscow is urging Russians to switch to state-supported digital services.
Since last August, Russia has been banning the making of calls via the platform on its territory, as part of a broader campaign against social networks owned by the West.
Opponents say the campaign aims to force Russians to use local platforms.
The Russian communications supervision body "Roskomnadzor" stated that "(WhatsApp) is used for planning and executing terrorist acts in the country, and for conducting scams and other crimes against our citizens."
The authority added, "If the messaging application does not comply with Russian legislation, it will be completely banned."
The American tech giant "Meta," which owns the messaging service, did not immediately comment.
Alongside Telegram, "WhatsApp" is one of the most popular messaging applications in Russia. Moscow demands both applications to allow access to user data when requested by law enforcement for investigating scams and activities Russia classifies as "terrorist."
Human rights activists fear that this may lead to an expansion of state surveillance in Russia, and that the measure could be used to target opponents of the Kremlin or the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
