Russia increases pressure on Telegram: further restrictions and penalties loom

In Russia, Telegram users are apparently experiencing increasing problems with the widely used messenger service. This is linked to restrictions imposed by the Russian telecommunications regulator, Roskomnadzor. The authority demands measures from Telegram against fraud and the spread of terrorism, but the messenger insists on freedom of speech and privacy.

As early as August 2025, Russia restricted calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing protection against fraudulent calls. The next stage of internet censorship followed just two months later. WhatsApp and Telegram were again restricted in Russia to counter criminals, according to official statements. The messengers were said to be important services for extortion, fraud, and the involvement of Russian citizens in acts of sabotage.

Telegram is “consistently restricted”

Now, state media like RBC report on the introduction of “consistent restrictions” on Telegram by Russian authorities, as the messenger service is not taking effective measures against fraud, not adequately protecting personal data, and violating Russian law. “In this context, Roskomnadzor will continue to introduce successive restrictions by order of the competent authorities to ensure compliance with Russian legislation and the protection of citizens,” the statement reads.

“These rules are open and the same for everyone: operating servers within Russia, ensuring the protection of personal data, protecting citizens from fraud, and creating conditions to prevent extremism and terrorism,” emphasized Roskomnadzor. According to Reuters, some citizens of Moscow have already noticed this. Telegram is now not working as well, users confirm.

Russia wants to replace Telegram with its messenger

Telegram's operators, on the other hand, see themselves and their service under attack. “Russia is restricting access to Telegram to force its citizens to switch to a state-controlled app designed for surveillance and political censorship,” Telegram CEO Pavel Durov explained according to Bloomberg on his platform. “Restricting citizens' freedom is never the right way. Telegram stands for freedom of speech and privacy, regardless of pressure.”

The state-controlled app mentioned by Durov is MAX, a messenger promoted by the Russian state. In August 2025, it was already stated that Russia's WhatsApp alternative will soon have to be pre-installed on mobile devices. This is intended to encourage the Russian population to stop communicating via WhatsApp or Telegram. Last December, the authorities went a step further and blocked Roblox, FaceTime, and Snapchat in Russia.

In addition to restricted service, Telegram also faces fines. In the context of various court proceedings because the messenger has not removed illegal information according to Russian law, Telegram could be ordered to pay 64 million rubles (equivalent to 694,670 euros). Bailiffs are also attempting to collect a further 9 million rubles (97,686 euros) from previous fines from Telegram.

(fds)