Russia has officially banned WhatsApp, forcing over 100 million users onto the government-controlled surveillance app Max. <br />The Kremlin says the ban is due to WhatsApp’s failure to comply with Russian laws, while Meta warns this threatens user privacy and secure communication. <br /> <br />Telegram founder Pavel Durov also accused Moscow of restricting access to secure messaging platforms. <br />Russia claims WhatsApp has been used for terrorism, fraud, and extortion, though critics say the move is aimed at increasing state control. <br /> <br />The new Max app is now required on all smartphones and tablets sold in Russia, offering messaging, calls, and money transfers — but under full government oversight. <br /> <br />#Russia #WhatsAppBan #Putin #MaxApp #Meta #Telegram #DigitalFreedom #Privacy #Surveillance #BreakingNews<br /><br />~PR.462~HT.408~ED.532~GR.538~
