Russia could move to restrict WhatsApp if it fails to comply with national data storage and content laws, a senior lawmaker said on Wednesday, as Moscow intensifies efforts to tighten internet control and promote domestic technology platforms.
Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the State Duma’s Committee on Information Policy, said foreign messaging services operating in Russia must fully comply with domestic legislation, including requirements to localize user data and remove prohibited content upon request.
“If a service does not comply with the law, enforcement measures provided for by Russian legislation will apply,” Gorelkin said during a parliamentary session, according to remarks published by state media and reported by Reuters.
Roskomnadzor, Russia’s federal communications watchdog, confirmed that all companies processing the personal data of Russian citizens are required to store that data on servers located within Russia under the country’s data localization law.
WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, is one of the most widely used messaging applications in Russia.
According to estimates from research firm Mediascope, the platform reaches more than 70% of Russian internet users monthly, making it a critical communication tool for both individuals and businesses.
Meta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Sovereign Internet Framework
Any potential restrictions would be grounded in Russia’s “sovereign internet” law, adopted in 2019.
The legislation enables authorities to route internet traffic through state-controlled infrastructure and provides technical capability to isolate the Russian segment of the internet often referred to as “Runet” from the broader global network.
Roskomnadzor has previously restricted access to platforms including Facebook and Instagram in 2022 following compliance disputes over content moderation and regulatory obligations, moves widely covered by outlets including the BBC.
Russian officials argue that such measures are necessary to ensure cybersecurity resilience and regulatory enforcement.
Digital rights advocates say the framework expands state oversight and limits access to global communication tools.
Domestic Alternatives and Economic Impact
If access to WhatsApp were restricted, domestic services could gain market share. VK Messenger, part of theVK ecosystem, is considered the leading Russian alternative.
Telegram, founded by Pavel Durov, also maintains a large user base within the country.
The government has supported domestic infrastructure initiatives such as RuStore, a state-backed mobile application marketplace aimed at reducing reliance on Apple and Google distribution systems.
Businesses operating in Russia could face operational adjustments if restrictions are implemented.
Many companies rely on WhatsApp for customer communication and internal coordination. Previous platform restrictions have resulted in short-term disruption before users migrated to approved alternatives.
No formal implementation date has been announced. Further action would depend on compliance assessments by Roskomnadzor and continued legislative oversight.
The latest parliamentary remarks underscore Moscow’s broader strategy of digital sovereignty, as authorities seek greater control over foreign technology services operating within Russia.
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