**Russia Blocks Voice and Video Calls on Telegram and WhatsApp in Test Run**
In a move that has raised concerns about online freedom, Russia appears to have conducted its first-ever tests to block voice and video calls on popular messaging platforms Telegram and WhatsApp. According to reports by Russian independent outlet Agentstvo, the tests were carried out using data from the Na Svyazi digital monitoring project.
The tests seem to have been successful in disrupting service for many users. Downdetector, a website that tracks service disruptions, registered nearly 7,500 reports of Telegram malfunctions over the past day, with most users citing problems with audio and video calls. WhatsApp also saw more than 3,300 complaints on August 11, peaking between 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
**The Push to Restrict Foreign Messaging Platforms**
This move by Russia comes at a time when the country is pushing for a national digital platform based on the state-developed Max messenger. The law creating this platform was signed by President Vladimir Putin on June 24, with human rights groups and independent outlets warning that it could be used for surveillance.
The reported tests also follow reports from pro-government outlet Ostorozhno Media quoting a government source saying that major Russian telecom operators had urged authorities to block voice calls in foreign messengers. The operators cited rising equipment costs due to sanctions, increased maintenance expenses, and a sharp surge in mobile traffic as reasons for their request.
**Concerns About Surveillance and Online Freedom**
The push to restrict foreign messaging platforms raises concerns about online freedom and surveillance in Russia. Human rights groups have warned that the national digital platform could be used to monitor citizens’ communications and suppress dissenting voices.
In recent weeks, Russian regional authorities have also intensified mobile internet shutdowns and slowdowns, citing “dangerous neighbors” as a reason. This has led to widespread disruptions for citizens, who were advised to rely on wired internet, Wi-Fi, offline maps, and non-digital payment methods.
**What’s Next?**
The tests by Russia to block voice and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp are a worrying sign of the country’s increasing efforts to restrict online freedom. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen what other measures will be taken to control citizens’ access to information and communication channels.
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