Bank in Russia Fined for Messaging Debtor via Foreign Messenger for the First Time

The fine amounted to 200,000 rubles, Roskomnadzor reported

In Russia, a bank has been fined for the first time for violating legislation regarding the use of foreign messengers when transmitting personal data. This was reported by Roskomnadzor.

The fine amounted to 200,000 rubles. The violation occurred when a bank employee sent a message to a debtor from a corporate number via a prohibited messenger, despite the existing restrictions. The complaint was filed by a resident of Moscow.

Since March 1, 2023, a law has come into force in Russia prohibiting the use of foreign messengers for the transmission of financial and personal information. The list of such messengers, as determined by Roskomnadzor, includes WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, Snapchat, WeChat, and others.

In early April 2025, a law came into force prohibiting employees of government bodies, banks, and telecom operators from communicating with clients via foreign messengers. The measure is aimed at combating telephone and cyber fraud.

Read more on the topic:

Russian civil servants, employees of the Central Bank and other structures will be prohibited from using foreign messengers

The Ministry of Digital Development explained why restrictions on the use of foreign messengers are needed

Fraudsters have taken a liking to foreign messengers

Sources
RKN

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