Russia has decided to block Apple’s video-calling app, FaceTime, as stated by the state communications watchdog on Thursday. This action came shortly after the blocking of the U.S. children’s gaming platform Roblox. The restrictions are part of a growing crackdown on foreign tech platforms. Russian authorities claim that FaceTime is being exploited for criminal activities, while Roblox has been accused of disseminating extremist materials and “LGBT propaganda.”
These recent moves add to the list of restrictions imposed on Google’s YouTube, Meta’s WhatsApp, and the Telegram messaging service. Critics view these measures as censorship and a means of increasing state control over private communications, while Russia insists they are necessary law enforcement actions. In response to these restrictions, Russian authorities introduced a state-backed alternative app called Max earlier this year, which critics fear could be used for surveillance.
The communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, defended its decision, stating that FaceTime is allegedly being used for organizing terrorist activities, recruiting individuals for crimes, and committing fraud against Russian citizens. However, no evidence supporting these claims was provided by the watchdog.
Apple has not yet responded to queries regarding the blockage of FaceTime, an application that facilitates free video and audio calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data. Users in Moscow attempting to use FaceTime on Thursday encountered a message on their screens indicating “User unavailable.” Reports indicate that the app was not connecting as expected.
In recent months, Roskomnadzor has intensified efforts to restrict access to Western media and tech platforms that are deemed to violate Russian laws. Previously, Russia had limited some functionalities on WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing them of non-cooperation in sharing information related to fraud and terrorism cases. There were even threats to completely block WhatsApp last week.
Last year, the language-learning app Duolingo removed references to content considered controversial by Russian authorities after warnings from the watchdog. The recent ban on Roblox was also enforced by Roskomnadzor due to allegations of distributing inappropriate content, including extremist materials and “LGBT propaganda.” Roblox responded by affirming its commitment to adhering to local laws and ensuring a safe environment for users.
Roblox, with an average of 151.5 million daily active users in the third quarter of this year, has faced bans in multiple countries over concerns about child safety and predatory behavior on the platform. In 2023, Russia labeled the “international LGBT movement” as extremist, leading to severe legal repercussions for individuals associated with the LGBTQ+ community.
These actions reflect Russia’s ongoing efforts to regulate online content and communication platforms, sparking debates about free speech and privacy in the digital age.
