"Trying to isolate over 100 million users from private and secure communication is a backwards step and can only lead to less safety for people in Russia. We continue to do everything we can to keep users connected. The move fits into the Kremlin's aim to achieve a sovereign internet an online space cut off from western technology and foreign influence, and more vulnerable to state control."
"The latest rift between Russia and WhatsApp comes amid a broader crackdown on social media, most recently targeting Telegram, another popular messaging app used by more than 60 million Russians each day. The move triggered criticism from frontline Russian troops, as well as pro-war bloggers and exiled opposition figures. After users reported slower traffic and delays in downloading videos and images on Tuesday, Telegram's Russian-born billionaire founder, Pavel Durov who is based in Dubai criticised Russian authorities."
Russia attempted to fully block WhatsApp to steer users toward the state-sponsored Max communications app. WhatsApp warned that isolating over 100 million users from private and secure communication would reduce safety and said it is working to keep users connected. The action aligns with Kremlin efforts to build a sovereign internet cut off from western technology and more vulnerable to state control. The crackdown on messaging services also targeted Telegram, prompting criticism from troops, pro-war bloggers and exiled opposition figures and comments from Telegram founder Pavel Durov. Max is modelled on WeChat, has about 55 million users, and was ordered pre-installed on new phones.
Read at www.theguardian.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]