Russia block Apple’s FaceTime after WhatsApp and Telegram, here’s why

Roskomnadzor, the Russian state communications regulator has announced that it has blocked Apple’s FaceTime video-calling service. As reported by Reuters, this move is part of a broader campaign against foreign technology platforms. As per the authorities the app has been used for criminal activity. However, the critics argue that this move by the Russian regulator amount to censorship and tighter state control over private communications. The move follows restrictions against Google's YouTube, Meta's, opens new tab WhatsApp and the Telegram messaging service.

Roskomnadzor said that the decision is taken on the basis of information given by the law enforcement agencies alleging that FaceTime is being used to conduct illegal activities. In an emailed statement to Reuters, Roskomnadzor said, “According to law enforcement agencies, FaceTime is being used to organise and carry out terrorist attacks in the country, recruit perpetrators, and commit fraud and other crimes against Russian citizens." However, the regulator did not eve ale the evidence in support of these allegations.