Russia Bans Snapchat and FaceTime, labeling Apps as ‘Terrorist Tools’
MOSCOW – Russia has officially banned the use of Snapchat and FaceTime, designating both applications as “terrorist tools” and citing national security concerns, according to a statement released by the country’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, on December 5, 2025. The move expands existing restrictions on popular messaging apps and signals a further tightening of control over online communication within Russia.
The bans follow a pattern of increasing limitations on foreign-owned messaging platforms. Last year, Signal and Viber were blocked. While WhatsApp and Telegram - the most popular messenger services in Russia – were permitted this summer, their call functions were restricted. Authorities are actively promoting “MAX,” a state-developed messenger service offering integrated messaging, government services, and payment options, raising concerns about potential user tracking due to its reportedly weak end-to-end encryption.
Russia’s actions are rooted in expansive laws granting regulators and intelligence agencies broad authority to monitor internet services. Under Russian law, any online platform facilitating message exchange is classified as an “information dissemination organization,” requiring compliance with Roskomnadzor and granting the Federal Security Service (FSB) access to user accounts. Non-compliance can result in platform blocking.
“The restrictions were fully expected,” stated Stanislav Seleznev, a cybersecurity expert and human rights lawyer.”Tens of millions of Russians are believed to be using FaceTime after calls on WhatsApp and Telegram were banned.” He added that other platforms refusing to cooperate with Roskomnadzor will likely face similar restrictions.
The bans on Snapchat and FaceTime are the latest step in Russia’s effort to exert greater control over the digital sphere and steer citizens towards domestically-controlled alternatives. This strategy has intensified since the outbreak of conflict, with authorities increasingly viewing independent communication channels as a threat to national stability.
