Overview
- Roskomnadzor announced new limits on FaceTime on December 4, with Moscow users reporting failed connections and “user unavailable” messages.
- The watchdog also confirmed Snapchat has been blocked since October, expanding a list that recently added Roblox over claims of extremist content and child safety risks.
- Authorities previously curtailed voice and video calls on WhatsApp and Telegram and warned WhatsApp could face a full block if it does not comply with Russian rules.
- Officials justify the measures as crime and security responses, but outlets report the regulator has not presented public evidence to support the terrorism and fraud allegations.
- The campaign aligns with efforts to build a more controlled internet by promoting the domestic MAX app and tightening enforcement while also targeting VPNs used to bypass blocks.