Starting 13 August 2025, Russia has imposed partial restrictions on voice calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram.
The move follows accusations that both platforms failed to comply with national security laws, marking another step in Moscow’s push to tighten control over digital communications.
Details of the restriction
The Russian communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, announced that voice call quality on both apps will be deliberately degraded.
WhatsApp users have reported distorted audio, while Telegram users say calls have become almost unusable. Text messaging and other non-voice features remain unaffected for now.
Officials claim the decision is linked to ongoing concerns over fraud, extortion, and terrorism. They allege both Meta (WhatsApp’s parent company) and Telegram have ignored repeated requests to share user data for law enforcement purposes.
The restrictions are part of a broader strategy by Russian authorities to reduce reliance on foreign technology and promote state-backed messaging services, which are expected to be integrated with government systems.
Company responses
Meta has rejected the accusations, stating that the move infringes on users’ rights to secure, encrypted communications. The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting privacy worldwide.
Telegram has also defended its moderation practices, saying it actively works to remove harmful content.
Impact and concerns
Digital rights groups warn that the new measures could be a stepping stone toward stricter internet controls in Russia. They also highlight the risk of further limiting online freedom of expression and increasing government surveillance.
Do you think these restrictions will push Russian users toward state-controlled apps or drive them to seek alternative secure messaging tools?
Stay tuned to TechNave.com for more updates.
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