Russia Cracks Down on WhatsApp, Rolls Out "Super-App" Amid Widespread Internet Blackouts

Russia Targets WhatsApp, Pushes New 'Super-App' as Internet Blackouts Grow In a move to restrict access to popular messaging apps, Russia's media regulator, Roskomnadzor, imposed new restrictions on calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram in mid-August. The timing coincided with the rollout of a new "national messenger" app known as Max, created by a Russian firm closely controlled by the Kremlin. According to estimates, monthly user numbers for WhatsApp and Telegram are 97 million and 90 million respectively, making them the country's most popular apps. For millions of Russians, these platforms have become an integral part of daily life, used for everything from parents' chats to tenants' groups. Marina, a 45-year-old freelance copywriter, was among those affected by the restrictions. "I relied on WhatsApp for my work and personal life," she said. "But one day last month, I couldn't make a call to a colleague properly. We tried Telegram, but that didn't work either." The new restrictions, imposed by Roskomnadzor, require internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram. This move has sparked concerns about the erosion of online freedoms in Russia. The restrictions come as part of a broader effort to promote domestic apps and reduce reliance on foreign platforms. The Kremlin-controlled firm behind Max, Digital Space, claims that its new app is more secure and reliable than international alternatives. "We are creating a national messenger that will be under our control," said Sergey Goryashko, a spokesperson for Digital Space. "This will ensure the security of Russian citizens' data and prevent foreign interference in our internal affairs." The rollout of Max has been met with skepticism by some experts, who point out that its user interface is similar to WhatsApp's. "It's not clear what makes Max more secure or reliable than WhatsApp," said Natalia Kolesnikova, a digital rights activist. As the restrictions on WhatsApp and Telegram continue to affect millions of Russians, concerns are growing about the implications for online freedoms in the country. The move has also sparked debate about the role of technology in shaping public discourse and the impact of censorship on free speech. The current status of the restrictions is unclear, with some ISPs reporting difficulties in implementing the new rules. However, it is likely that the rollout of Max will continue to be a major focus for Russian authorities as they seek to promote domestic apps and reduce reliance on foreign platforms. In the coming weeks and months, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what impact the restrictions will have on online freedoms in Russia. One thing is certain: the battle for control of the internet in Russia has only just begun. *Reporting by Bbc.*