Finance
Russia threatens full ban on WhatsApp
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on November 28, 2025
1 min readLast updated: January 20, 2026
Global Banking & Finance Review®
Company
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on November 28, 2025
1 min readLast updated: January 20, 2026
Russia's watchdog threatens to block WhatsApp for not complying with local laws, potentially affecting millions of users. WhatsApp accuses Russia of blocking secure communication.
MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia's state communications watchdog threatened on Friday to block WhatsApp entirely if it fails to comply with Russian law, news agencies reported.
In August, Russia began limiting some calls on WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, and on Telegram, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of refusing to share information with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases.
On Friday, the Roskomnadzor watchdog again accused WhatsApp of failing to comply with Russian requirements designed to prevent and combat crime.
"If the messaging service continues to fail to meet the demands of Russian legislation, it will be completely blocked," Interfax news agency quoted it as saying.
WhatsApp has accused Moscow of trying to block millions of Russians from accessing secure communication.
Russian authorities are pushing a state-backed rival app called MAX, which critics claim could be used to track users. State media have dismissed those accusations as false.
(Reporting by ReutersWriting by Maxim RodionovEditing by Louise Heavens)
Compliance refers to the process of ensuring that a company adheres to legal standards and regulations relevant to its business operations. This is crucial in the banking and financial sectors to prevent fraud and maintain trust.
Cybersecurity involves protecting computer systems and networks from theft, damage, or unauthorized access. It is essential for safeguarding sensitive financial data and maintaining the integrity of financial institutions.
Financial services encompass a broad range of services provided by the finance industry, including banking, investment, insurance, and asset management, aimed at managing money and providing financial security.
Technology in finance refers to the use of software, hardware, and digital tools to enhance financial services, streamline operations, and improve customer experiences in banking and investment sectors.
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