Russia blocks Snapchat&Roblox, restricts Apple FaceTime, state officials say
6 days ago
- #internet censorship
- #Russia
- #digital surveillance
- Russian authorities blocked Snapchat and restricted Apple's FaceTime, citing use in terrorist activities and crimes.
- Restrictions extend to Google’s YouTube, Meta’s WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram post-Ukraine invasion.
- Russia employs laws, tech, and 'white lists' to control internet access and monitor traffic.
- Encrypted apps like Signal and Viber were blocked; WhatsApp and Telegram calls banned in 2024.
- Authorities promote 'Max', a national messenger app criticized for surveillance and lack of encryption.
- Roblox was blocked to 'protect children', despite its popularity with nearly 8 million monthly users.
- Russian law requires platforms to register with Roskomnadzor and grant FSB access to user data.