Roskomnadzor slows WhatsApp amid looming ban and staged limits
Roskomnadzor confirms gradual WhatsApp slowdowns to curb misuse; a full ban remains possible if laws aren’t met, with agencies urged to switch by 2026 deadline.
In Russia, the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media, commonly known as Roskomnadzor, confirmed a slowdown of WhatsApp. Officials say the measure addresses misuse by criminals for terrorism, fraud, and recruitment, and is part of enforcing compliance with national law.
The rollout will be gradual to give users time to switch to domestic services. If the messaging app does not meet Russian legal requirements, a full block remains a possible outcome.
The Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media (Минцифры) previously advised government bodies to finish the transition to national services by January 1, 2026, and budget institutions by February 1, 2026.
What is changing and why
The move is part of broader efforts to keep critical communications within national oversight. Regulators argue this helps curb illicit activity that uses international platforms and aligns with data localization rules.
Timeline and next steps
- January 1, 2026: deadline for government agencies to fully migrate to domestic platforms.
- February 1, 2026: deadline for budget institutions to complete the switch.
- Ongoing monitoring and potential extension if platforms fail to comply.
Expert comment
Expert opinion: A tech policy expert says the staged rollout gives users time to adjust while keeping pressure on providers to comply. They also note the plan could affect cross-border business communications in the near term.
Summary
The authorities acknowledge a slowdown of WhatsApp in Russia, citing misuse for terrorism, fraud, and recruitment. The restrictions will be implemented gradually, with a potential full ban if compliance does not improve. Government entities are urged to migrate to domestic platforms by early 2026 to ensure continuity of public services.
Key insight: A staged restriction strategy balances user adaptation with regulatory enforcement, but keeps the door open to a complete shutdown if compliance is not achieved.