Russia blocks WhatsApp; promotes domestic messaging platform Max

Russia has officially blocked access to the Meta-owned messaging service WhatsApp, confirming a significant escalation in its ongoing effort to restrict foreign-based communication platforms within the country. The move follows longstanding tensions between Russian authorities and international tech companies over compliance with local laws and regulations.

The ban, announced on February 12, 2026, affects what had been one of the country’s most widely used messaging apps, with an estimated 100 million users across Russia. WhatsApp has said that Russian authorities have attempted to fully block access to its messaging service, a move the company says could impact more than 100 million users in the country. In a statement shared on its official X account, WhatsApp claimed that efforts to cut access were part of a broader push to drive them toward a "state-owned surveillance app."

In its post, WhatsApp wrote:

“Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia.”

Today the Russian government attempted to fully block WhatsApp in an effort to drive people to a state-owned surveillance app. Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia.…

— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) February 12, 2026

The company said it was monitoring the situation and continuing efforts to keep users connected despite the restrictions.

Peskov also urged Russian citizens to use the domestic messaging platform Max, describing it as “an accessible alternative to foreign messengers.” Authorities have mandated that Max, developed with integration of government and commercial functions, be pre-installed on smartphones sold in Russia since 2025.

The block on WhatsApp coincides with a continuing pattern of digital restrictions in Russia. In recent months, authorities have also limited access to other foreign technology platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and tightened regulatory measures on messaging apps such as Telegram. Officials have argued that foreign services must adhere to local laws, including data storage and moderation requirements, or face further curbs.

The current block on WhatsApp reflects the Russian government’s increasing emphasis on digital sovereignty — a strategy that aims to assert greater control over online communication within its borders and reduce dependence on foreign technology services.