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

The GuardianThursday, December 4, 2025 at 8:46:07 PM
Russia blocks Snapchat and restricts Apple’s FaceTime, state officials say
  • Russian authorities have blocked access to Snapchat and imposed restrictions on Apple's FaceTime, citing that these apps were allegedly used to organize terrorist activities within the country. This move is part of a broader effort to tighten control over online communications, as stated by the state internet regulator Roskomnadzor.
  • The restrictions on these popular communication platforms could significantly impact user engagement and market presence for both Snapchat and Apple in Russia, raising concerns about the implications for digital freedom and privacy in the region.
  • This development reflects a growing trend among governments to regulate technology companies and their services, as seen in other countries like India, where Apple has resisted state mandates to pre-install government apps, highlighting ongoing tensions between tech firms and state authorities globally.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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