Russia’s telecommunications regulator, Roskomnadzor, has blocked access to the popular encrypted messaging platform Viber, citing violations of national legislation. The messaging app, which boasts over 1 billion Android downloads and significant iOS presence, was restricted due to alleged non-compliance with Russian information dissemination laws.

The regulator stated the block aims to prevent potential terrorist and extremist activities, illegal recruitment, drug trafficking, and the spread of unauthorized information. This action follows a June 2023 court ruling that fined Viber 1 million rubles for failing to remove content related to Russia’s Ukraine conflict.

The restriction is part of a broader crackdown on foreign communication platforms in Russia. In March 2023, the government prohibited state agencies from using various foreign messaging apps, including Discord, Microsoft Teams, Telegram, and WhatsApp. Signal messaging service faced similar restrictions in August 2023.

Russia has also intensified its control over VPN services, implementing three major ban waves between 2020 and 2021. In August 2024, Apple removed 25 VPN apps from its Russian App Store, including prominent services like NordVPN and Proton VPN, following Roskomnadzor’s directive against accessing “illegal content.”

The move represents another significant step in Russia’s increasing digital isolation and tightening control over communication platforms within its borders.