WhatsApp Vows to Defy Russia's Attempts to Block Encrypted Messaging

As of August 14, 2025, Russia has started restricting some Telegram and WhatsApp calls, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of failing to share information with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases. WhatsApp, the messaging app owned by Meta Platforms, has responded by stating that it is "private, end-to-end encrypted, and defies government attempts to violate people's right to secure communication, which is why Russia is trying to block it from over 100 million Russian people."

The company has vowed to keep doing all it can to make end-to-end encrypted communication available to people everywhere, including in Russia. WhatsApp argues that secure messaging is a fundamental right and that it will continue to resist Russia's efforts to restrict its services. The ongoing dispute highlights the tension between government surveillance and the public's desire for privacy in digital communications.