Russian authorities have begun restricting access to Telegram, one of the country’s most widely used messaging apps, citing security concerns and alleged legal violations.
On Tuesday, officials said the measures were intended to “protect Russian citizens,” accusing the platform of failing to remove content deemed criminal or extremist under Russian law.
Russia’s communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, said the restrictions would remain in place “until violations of Russian law are eliminated.” The regulator claimed Telegram does not adequately safeguard users’ personal data and lacks effective mechanisms to combat fraud and the use of the service for criminal or extremist purposes.
Telegram has denied the allegations, saying it actively works to prevent abuse and complies with applicable laws in the jurisdictions where it operates.
State news agency TASS reported that Telegram faces fines totaling 64 million rubles (approximately $828,000) for allegedly refusing to delete prohibited content and failing to meet regulatory requirements.
Following the announcement, users across Russia reported widespread disruptions. Monitoring site Downdetector recorded more than 11,000 complaints within 24 hours, with many users saying the app was either inaccessible or functioning more slowly than usual.
Telegram remains deeply embedded in Russian public life. It is widely used by millions of citizens, including members of the military, senior officials, state media outlets and government institutions such as the Kremlin and Roskomnadzor itself.
Pavel Durov, Telegram’s Russian-born founder, said efforts to restrict the app would not succeed. In a statement, he said Telegram stands for freedom of speech and privacy despite mounting pressure.
Durov accused the Russian government of attempting to steer users toward a state-run messaging platform that he described as a tool for surveillance and political censorship. He pointed to Iran’s failed attempt eight years ago to ban Telegram in favor of a government-backed alternative, arguing that similar measures in Russia would ultimately prove ineffective.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
