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Russia has blocked FaceTime and Snapchat, citing security and criminal concerns, in its latest internet crackdown. With tens of millions affected and more platforms at risk, what could be the next big service to disappear behind Russia’s digital firewall?
Apple's FaceTime, Snapchat blocked in Russia
Moscow: Russian authorities have imposed restrictions on Apple’s video calling service, FaceTime, and blocked the messaging app Snapchat, citing concerns over criminal activity. The move reflects the Kremlin’s ongoing campaign to tighten state control over online communications and the internet.
Russia’s state internet regulator, Roskomnadzor, announced that FaceTime and Snapchat were being used “to organise and conduct terrorist activities, recruit perpetrators, and commit fraud and other crimes against citizens.”
While Apple has not immediately responded to requests for comment, Snapchat was reported to have been blocked on October 10, though the announcement came only on Thursday.
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Under President Vladimir Putin, Russia has steadily expanded efforts to regulate and control the internet. Authorities have passed restrictive laws, banned non-compliant websites and platforms, and deployed advanced technology to monitor online traffic.
Social Media Crackdowns: Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russia blocked platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Video Platforms: YouTube access was disrupted last year, with authorities blaming Google, though experts cited deliberate throttling.
VPN Restrictions: While Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) allow users to bypass some blocks, these services are frequently targeted and blocked.
The Kremlin has also focused on messaging platforms. In 2024, encrypted apps like Signal and Viber were blocked, and this year, WhatsApp and Telegram calls were prohibited. The government has simultaneously promoted a domestic messenger, MAX, which lacks end-to-end encryption and shares user data with authorities on request.
Earlier this week, Roblox, the popular online gaming platform, was also blocked, with officials citing child protection concerns, including predatory behavior in chat functions.
According to cybersecurity expert Stanislav Seleznev of Net Freedom, Russian law classifies any platform enabling user messaging as an “organizer of dissemination of information.” Such platforms must register with Roskomnadzor and provide Russian security services, including the FSB, with user access. Failure to comply allows authorities to block the platform.
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Seleznev noted that tens of millions of Russians likely used FaceTime, especially after WhatsApp and Telegram call restrictions. He described the FaceTime and Snapchat bans as “predictable” and warned that other platforms failing to cooperate with Roskomnadzor are likely to face similar restrictions.
These measures underline Russia’s broader strategy to control the digital environment, limit access to foreign platforms, and promote government-approved alternatives. As authorities continue to expand internet regulations, users face increasing limitations on communication, raising concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and digital rights in the country.
The Kremlin’s push for control highlights an ongoing tension between global internet accessibility and national security priorities in Russia.
