Russia blocks Snapchat and restricts Apple’s FaceTime, state officials say

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Guardian staff and agenciesDecember 4, 2025 at 09:46 PM

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medium article 3 min

Russian authorities have blocked Snapchat and restricted Apple's FaceTime, according to state news agencies and the communications regulator Roskomnadzor. Roskomnadzor stated the apps were being used for terrorist activities, recruiting, fraud, and other crimes. The action against Snapchat was taken on October 10 but only reported recently. These restrictions follow similar actions against other platforms like YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Under Vladimir Putin, the Russian government has been tightening control over the internet through restrictive laws, website bans, and monitoring technology. Other messaging platforms like Signal, Viber, WhatsApp, and Telegram have also faced restrictions, while the government promotes a national messenger app called Max.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Apple ×250% Snap Inc. 50% Ukraine ×250% Roskomnadzor 80% Russia ×380% Vladimir Putin ×2100%

Keywords

internet censorship 90% online restrictions 80% internet control 80% snapchat 70% facetime 70% roskomnadzor 60% internet regulator 60% messaging apps 50% vpn 50% cybersecurity 40%