Russian Government Considers Limiting Calls in Messengers
The Russian government is considering restrictions on calls made through messenger apps. This comes as Russia continues to block foreign social networks and messenger apps for alleged law violations.
According to Kommersant, a Russian state media outlet, authorities are discussing two options: blocking voice traffic from abroad or banning all voice calls in messenger apps. The main reason given for this proposal is the high number of fraudulent calls made through these apps.
Russian telecommunications operator Megafon reported that nearly 40% of messages sent through messenger apps are fraudulent. The Center for Countering Cyber Fraud claimed that about 70% of these calls come from abroad.
The final decision has not been made yet, and the Russian Digital Development Ministry said it is not developing regulations to limit voice traffic in messenger apps.
This move comes as Russia continues to restrict access to foreign social media platforms. In March 2022, the government blocked Facebook and Instagram. Last year, Roskomnadzor, Russia’s communications regulator, began throttling YouTube speeds and announced the blocking of Viber and Signal apps.
Russia is also considering blocking WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta. The company has been labeled as an “extremist organization” in Russia. To avoid being blocked, WhatsApp would have to agree to provide Russian law enforcement agencies with access to users’ personal information upon request.
The Russian government’s decision to restrict calls made through messenger apps is part of its efforts to control the flow of information and limit foreign influence on its citizens.