Russia Limits Access to Telegram Amid Push for State-Controlled Apps

Russian authorities have initiated restrictions on Telegram, a widely used messaging app, claiming it poses risks to national security by not blocking content deemed 'criminal and terrorist.' The telecommunications regulator, Roskomnadzor, has threatened fines of approximately $828,000 against Telegram for non-compliance. As these measures took effect, users reported significant disruptions, with over 11,000 complaints logged in a single day. The Russian government aims to push citizens toward its state-controlled messaging app, Max, which is now mandatory on new devices. Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, criticized the government's actions, asserting that they threaten freedom of speech and privacy.

Key Details: • Roskomnadzor has imposed restrictions effective immediately, citing national security. • Telegram faces a fine of 64 million rubles ($828,000) for non-compliance. • Users reported over 11,000 disruptions within 24 hours of the restrictions. • Max, the state-controlled app, is required on all new smartphones sold in Russia.