Vladimir Putin has blocked Russians from using messaging apps including WhatsApp in a bid to promote a new state-run platform closely controlled by the Kremlin. The “national messenger” app known as Max was rolled out last month and coincided with harsher restrictions on the usage of WhatsApp and Telegram, two of Russia’s most popular messaging services, used by 97 and 90 million people respectively. Both social media platforms offer end-to-end encryption services, meaning even those who operate them are unable to listen to calls or read messages.
While WhatsApp functions as lifeline to Russians living in remote towns and villages, allowing them to communicate with friends and family and order taxis, its owner Meta is designated as a terrorist organisation under Putin’s regime. The crackdown comes amid fears of a completely state-controlled internet service, punctuated by the outages that have become routine for entire cities across the country.
Unlike its counterparts, Max, which was created by a Russian firm with close ties to the Kremlin, can pass users’ information to third parties and government bodies.
The app, which is being promoted by Russian celebrities and bloggers, became a required feature of all new devices bought after September 1, and is set to become a “super app”, combining a Facebook-like layout with banking services and government alerts.
Russian citizens already have very limited digital freedom, with law dictating that sim cards can only be bought using national ID and granting security services access to telecom services’ infrastructure.
The Kremlin has severe punishments in store for those caught transgressing the restrictions – including fines for “deliberately searching” for extremist materials online and a ban on advertising on websites linked to “extremist” organisations.
One woman, named only as Marina, told the BBC: “The authorities don’t want us, ordinary people, to maintain any kind of relationships, connections, friendships or mutual support. They want everyone to sit quietly in their own corner.”
The frequent power outages have also had the side effect of crippling local infrastructure, making day-to-day life in Russia even more difficult.
“It’s impossible to check bus routes or timetables,” a resident called Konstantin said. “The information boards at stops also show errors.”
State TV has described the shutdowns – which impacted up to 77 regions simultaneously at their peak over the summer – as an opportunity for a “digital detox”, airing segments of residents talking about having more time to read, walk and see friends and family.