Russia continues tech crackdown by blocking Snapchat, FaceTime access

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Alastair McCreadyDecember 5, 2025 at 06:26 AM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

In December 2025, Russia's internet regulator Roskomnadzor announced it had blocked access to Snapchat and Apple's FaceTime on October 10. The regulator accused both platforms of being used to organize terrorist acts and recruit perpetrators of criminal acts within Russia. This action is part of a broader effort by Russian authorities to tighten control over the internet and online communications. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has intensified efforts to restrict online platforms, including blocking major social media sites like X, Facebook, and Instagram. YouTube access has also been disrupted, with authorities blaming Google for hardware maintenance issues.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Vladimir Putin 50% Ukraine ×250% Apple ×280% Snap Inc ×280% Russia ×480% Roskomnadzor ×2100%

Keywords

internet censorship 90% tech crackdown 80% facetime 70% roskomnadzor 70% snapchat 70% russian authorities 60% online communications 60% internet regulator 50% foreign tech platforms 50% restrictive laws 40%