Russia Clamps Down on WhatsApp and Telegram Calls

Russia has announced partial restrictions on voice calls via WhatsApp and Telegram, claiming the move is aimed at combating fraud, extortion, and terrorism. Authorities accuse the platforms of facilitating criminal activity and demand access to user data for investigations, including those related to what Russia calls terrorism. The restrictions will remain until the companies comply with Russian laws, but both Telegram and WhatsApp push back, citing user privacy and security. With over 100 million Russians relying on WhatsApp, critics warn the move could drive users toward platforms more vulnerable to state surveillance, further tightening Moscow’s control over online speech.