WhatsApp has said that Russia is trying to restrict the messenger by refusing to provide access to encrypted messages. WhatsApp emphasizes that the service with end-to-end encryption protects users' right to private communication, which is what is causing opposition from the Russian authorities.
Recall that Russia has begun restricting calls to Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing the platforms of refusing to cooperate with law enforcement in cases related to fraud and terrorism.
WhatsApp said it would continue to work to maintain access to encrypted communication for users around the world, including in Russia. According to Reuters, Telegram responded by saying that its moderators use AI to remove millions of malicious messages every day and are actively fighting fraud and calls for violence.
Conflicts between Russia and foreign technology companies have been ongoing for several years, and after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the country's authorities tightened control over the Internet space.