A serious situation is developing around the operation of the WhatsApp messenger in Russia. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
If the platform does not fully comply with local laws, it may cease operations within the country. This was officially stated by Roskomnadzor, the federal service responsible for supervision in the field of communications and information technology in Russia.
According to Roskomnadzor, restriction measures on the messenger are being gradually implemented. The reason cited is that WhatsApp is not complying with the legal requirements aimed at preventing crimes in Russia.
Specifically, the platform has been noted to be used for organizing terrorist activities, recruiting criminals, and other illegal actions. For this reason, Roskomnadzor has taken the messenger's activities under control and has been forced to strengthen restrictions.
According to the information, restrictions are being implemented step by step, allowing users to switch to other applications. If WhatsApp refuses to comply with Russian laws, it may be completely blocked.
Since August, a deterioration in the quality of calls on the messenger has been observed. In October, Roskomnadzor began partially restricting WhatsApp's activities, explaining this decision by the necessity to combat crime.
On November 28, disruptions in the messenger's operation, delays in sending messages, and difficulties in sending media files were observed in Moscow and other regions. Currently, WhatsApp is one of the most popular messengers in Russia, ranking fifth among "Communication" category applications according to Google Play data.
According to Mediascope analytics, in October 2025, the messenger's audience in Russia amounted to 96.2 million users, while Telegram had 91 million users. Discussions about the complete blocking of WhatsApp have been ongoing since 2024.
Sergey Boyarsky, head of the State Duma committee, called this issue a rumor last December and recommended a cautious approach.
