WhatsApp may be completely blocked in Russia due to non-compliance with Roskomnadzor's requirements. The agency stated that the messenger is used to organize terrorist activities, recruit perpetrators, and commit fraud, and does not comply with the conditions for preventing and suppressing crimes. The blocking decision will be implemented in stages, according to RKN.
WhatsApp's monthly reach in Russia is about 96.5 million users, making it the largest platform among messengers. For comparison, Telegram reaches 91 million people. In August, RKN already restricted voice calls in WhatsApp and Telegram, and in October, users began to complain about disruptions in the operation of both platforms. Previously, Viber and Signal were blocked in Russia on similar grounds.
The agency recommended that Russians switch to national services. In March 2025, VK introduced the national messenger Max. The service already has 55 million registered users, and its average daily reach exceeds 19 million people. In addition to basic functions, Max is planned to be integrated with government services and payment systems, making it a Russian analogue of the Chinese WeChat.
Experts note that WhatsApp remains a popular tool for corporate communication and business correspondence. Kirill Tanaev, Director of the Institute of Modern Media, emphasized that the platform is convenient and widely used, which makes its potential blocking a significant event for millions of users in the country.
