Russia may block WhatsApp by 2025 if the messaging platform's management fails to comply with local laws, according to Russian state-controlled news agency RIA Novosti. Senator Artem Sheykin warned of this potential outcome during comments made recently.
WhatsApp is currently the only service belonging to Meta—the tech giant behind Facebook, Instagram, and Threads—that has not yet faced a ban under recent Russian regulations. The messaging app's precarious status became more pronounced on December 19 when it was added to the register of information distributors, which mandates the storage of user data and its availability to Russian law enforcement agencies upon request.
Senator Sheykin made it clear: "If the messenger fails to fulfill certain requirements and obligations, the probability of blocking may increase.” He also noted, “The development of the situation with WhatsApp... will depend on the position of the messenger's management on storing information about users and correspondence.” This indicates the Russian government's firm stance on compliance, particularly with the Federal Security Service (FSB) becoming involved.
Previously, Russia put up barriers against other social media platforms, declaring Meta as an “extremist organization” in 2022. This followed the blocking of Facebook and Instagram earlier, which left Viber and Signal also succumbing to governmental restrictions. Reports suggest WhatsApp might have faced blockage as early as last fall, with Russian IT company VK reportedly developing its own replacement application.
Meanwhile, users of WhatsApp have been grappling with the platform’s psychological impact. Some, like one user who expressed feeling overwhelmed, note how the constant barrage of messages generates anxiety about immediate responses. "Where has Remona gone?” complained one friend when stricter digital boundaries were adopted.
This user’s experiences reflect sentiments common among many WhatsApp users, who find themselves trapped between the desire for genuine connection and the burden of performance. Some resort to muting group chats or turning off their “last seen” status to reclaim control over their digital presence. Those who have enjoyed partial “app-stinence” share how it has allowed them to channel their energies elsewhere, such as practicing hobbies or even learning new languages.
The balance between connectivity and sanity has become key for many. This emotional tug-of-war has led to impactful decisions, like dismissing the app for well-being, but also confronting the fear of missing out on precious moments shared through it. “Can I really sacrifice seeing photos of my niece dressed as an Oompa Loompa for World Book Day?” another individual pondering the benefits of disengagement posed.
They reflected on the importance of WhatsApp for sharing significant personal updates, supporting one’s friends during crises, and the warmth derived from seemingly trivial exchanges. With the high stakes of potential blocking looming by 2025, users face pressure to adapt their expectations of the tool and struggle to engage on one’s terms. According to reports, friends reassessing their digital communications now jokingly say, “She’ll get back to us in 3-5 business days,” reflecting changing dynamics amid the harsh realities of rising restrictions.
Despite the potential for WhatsApp to neither exist nor function as it does now, the duality of joy and anxiety stemming from it remains evident. Users are learning not to feel the burden of instantaneous responses, and as they curtail their usage, they seem to cultivate newfound appreciation for their time and mental space. The looming question remains—will these changes be enough to influence WhatsApp’s fate as compliance becomes necessary for continued operation?