Okay, here’s a fact-checked and updated version of the provided text, addressing potential inaccuracies and providing context. I’ve focused on verifying the claims made within the article,particularly regarding dates and the status of app blocking in Russia.
—
## Russia Completely Blocks WhatsApp, Intensifies Online Censorship
![uZCqpH5w6pPr5gaE/0x296:5683×3493/2656×1494/filters:format(webp)/2026/02/12/ibpremiumfour735230-698df91b05a75473435613.jpg 2656w” sizes=”(min-width: 1440px) 885px, (min-width: 1200px) 50vw, 90vw”/>
Today the Russian government attempted to fully block WhatsApp in an effort to drive people to a state-owned surveillance app. Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure interaction is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia.…
– WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) February 12, 2026
While WhatsApp had experienced disruptions in Russia as the summer of 2024, this latest action marks a complete ban. This follows previous restrictions on platforms like YouTube (which has faced throttling and other limitations), Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, all blocked as 2022 in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine.
Telegram is also facing increased pressure, with founder Pavel Durov, based in Dubai, expressing concerns about potential blocking. Despite attempts to block it, Telegram remains accessible to many Russians using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), although authorities are actively working to disrupt VPN services as well.
The Russian government is actively promoting Max, a domestically developed messaging service with close ties to the Kremlin, as an alternative. Many public services are increasingly requiring the use of Max, limiting options for citizens. However, security experts have raised concerns about Max’s lack of security and its potential for extensive surveillance by Russian authorities.