In a continued effort to control the digital landscape, Russian authorities have blocked access to Snapchat and Apple’s FaceTime. The move marks the latest step in Moscow’s tightening grip over foreign technology platforms and online communications, as the Kremlin intensifies its surveillance and censorship efforts across the country.

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Roskomnadzor Cites “Terrorism” as Justification

The Russian state internet regulator Roskomnadzor announced the bans on Thursday, citing allegations that both platforms were being used “to organise and carry out terrorist acts within the country” and “recruit perpetrators” for criminal activities.

Although the regulator stated that the action was implemented on October 10, it was publicly announced only this week. Neither Apple nor Snapchat’s parent company, Snap Inc, has issued an official response.

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Ongoing Restrictions on Foreign Platforms

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, authorities have escalated measures to control internet access:

• Major social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram, have been blocked.
• Encrypted messaging services such as Signal and Viber were blocked in 2024.
• WhatsApp and Telegram, Russia’s most popular messaging apps, faced partial shutdowns in August 2025.
• YouTube experienced throttling and limited access, with authorities blaming Google for failing to maintain infrastructure in Russia.

Experts note that these platforms are among the few spaces where Kremlin critics continue to operate, making their restriction a key element of digital censorship and information control.

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VPNs and Alternative Apps

Previously, virtual private networks (VPNs) allowed users to circumvent online restrictions, but these tools are increasingly blocked. In parallel, the Kremlin has promoted a state-controlled “national” messenger app, MAX, developed by VK, the government-linked tech company.

• MAX integrates messaging, online government services, and digital payments.
• Authorities claim it is more secure and reduces fraud.
• Critics warn it allows state monitoring of private communications, as the developer has pledged to share user data upon request.
• MAX has been mandatory on all new phones and tablets sold in Russia since 1 September 2025.

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Context: Internet Control Under Putin

President Vladimir Putin has overseen a multipronged strategy to consolidate control over the internet:

• Monitoring and manipulating online traffic.
• Restricting access to foreign platforms that fail to comply with Russia’s restrictive laws.
• Promoting domestic alternatives to reduce dependence on international tech companies.

The Russian government frames these measures as necessary to combat terrorism, fraud, and illegal activities, while critics argue they limit freedom of expression and reinforce state surveillance over citizens.

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Implications for Russian Users

With Snapchat and FaceTime blocked, Russians now face restricted communication with international contacts, particularly for video calls and messaging. The crackdown represents a broader trend of digital isolation and the localization of online services, which analysts say could increase state influence over public discourse, commerce, and personal communication.