Russian authorities signalled that WhatsApp could face expanded restrictions after a series of regulatory actions targeting the service. The state regulator Roskomnadzor claimed that the Meta-owned platform had failed to comply with domestic security requirements and said further limits would remain possible under national law.
The dispute follows Moscow’s broader effort to increase control over foreign communication services. Earlier measures included limiting WhatsApp channels after the launch of a new broadcast feature. Regulators said the feature could enable information distribution outside approved channels. Officials also argued that foreign messaging platforms are expected to maintain operational transparency and respond to lawful data requests.
WhatsApp stated that it does not operate channels in Russia and that its service is designed for private communication. The company said it had not launched features that would qualify as media activity under Russian rules. It added that its end-to-end encryption protects user privacy and that the platform does not store message content in a way that would allow access by authorities.
Roskomnadzor said the service had still failed to meet Russian legal requirements. The agency stated that it would record ongoing violations until WhatsApp complied. Officials referred to national regulations that classify some messaging functions as subject to local registration and oversight. They said foreign services that do not meet these rules could face administrative measures.
Local commentators reported that the tightening stance aligns with a broader shift toward domestic digital platforms. Russian authorities have promoted homegrown services that allow direct regulatory access. Analysts noted that measures against foreign platforms often coincide with campaigns encouraging the adoption of local alternatives.
The restrictions have raised concerns among digital rights groups. They warned that further limits on encrypted messaging could reduce secure communication options in the country. Advocacy organisations said the moves reflect a long-running trend of narrowing online spaces that fall outside state supervision.
WhatsApp said the company remains available to discuss technical questions with regulators but added that it cannot weaken encryption or create access mechanisms that compromise user privacy. Russian officials have not indicated whether discussions with the platform are ongoing.