'Security Threat' WhatsApp should prepare to leave Russia, say country's lawmakers

Moscow (Web Desk): Russian authorities have raised concerns about WhatsApp's impact on national security, hinting that the messaging app might soon be banned in the country.

 Anton Gorelkin, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Parliament's Information Technology Committee, stated that WhatsApp is violating Russian laws and engaging in activities against the country's interests.

He further indicated that WhatsApp should prepare to exit Russia, as the government is introducing its own state messaging app called "Maks," which will be linked to government agencies and public services. President Vladimir Putin has already signed legislation in this regard.

WhatsApp is currently the most widely used messaging app in Russia, with nearly 68% of users relying on it for everyday communication. However, Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has already been labeled as an "extremist organization" in Russia, and its other services, including Facebook and Instagram, have been banned since 2022.

Another member of the Russian Parliament, Anton Nemkin, stated that WhatsApp's presence poses a national security threat, and a ban appears inevitable.

In addition, the government has passed new legislation under which individuals who search for content online deemed "extremist" by the authorities will face fines or legal action. This law has faced criticism from several journalistic organizations and government circles.

Under President Putin's directive, starting from September 1, 2025, strict sanctions will be imposed on software and apps from "unfriendly countries," further increasing the likelihood of a complete WhatsApp ban in Russia.