Russia blocking WhatsApp? how messaging app plans to stay connected with 100 million Russians

WhatsApp has accused Russia of attempting to block its services because the Meta-owned messaging app protects users’ right to secure communication through end-to-end encryption.

In a statement, WhatsApp said Russia is trying to cut off access for more than 100 million users in the country after the platform refused to compromise on privacy.

“WhatsApp is private, end-to-end encrypted, and defies government attempts to violate people’s right to secure communication, which is why Russia is trying to block it from over 100 million Russian people,” the company said.

Russian authorities have recently begun restricting certain Telegram and WhatsApp calls, alleging that the foreign-owned platforms have failed to cooperate with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism investigations.

The messaging service vowed to continue making encrypted communication available to users worldwide, including those in Russia.