Russia has attempted to fully block WhatsApp as part of a broader push to tighten control over its digital space.

The move appears aimed at steering users toward a state-run messaging app called MAX.

The development marks another escalation in Moscow’s standoff with foreign tech firms.

Russia has moved to block Meta Platforms-owned WhatsApp in the country, according to reports by FPJ and Reuters.

The messaging service said on Wednesday that the action comes as Moscow intensifies efforts to promote home-grown digital platforms and strengthen oversight of its internet ecosystem.

A WhatsApp spokesperson stated that the attempted block appears designed to force users to shift to a state-backed rival application named “MAX.”

WhatsApp raises surveillance concerns

The company alleged that the alternative MAX platform could be used for surveillance purposes.

Russian state media, however, have denied those claims.

“WhatsApp has been blocked as part of Russia’s efforts to push people onto a state-owned surveillance app,” a spokesperson said.

The company added that it would continue working to keep users connected, calling attempts to isolate more than 100 million users from private and secure communication a “backwards step” that could reduce safety for people in Russia.

Escalating tensions

The latest development comes amid a prolonged standoff between Moscow and foreign technology companies.

Tensions significantly escalated following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Since then, Russian authorities have tightened regulations on global tech firms, accusing them of failing to comply with domestic laws and refusing to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that any potential return of WhatsApp would depend on Meta’s willingness to comply with Russian legislation.

His remarks signal that the messaging platform’s status in the country remains uncertain.