Russia's Media Watchdog Blocks Viber Over Legal Non-Compliance

In a move that raises concerns over digital communication freedom, Russia's media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, has blocked the popular messaging application, Viber. The decision was made on Friday, citing the app's failure to adhere to local laws governing information dissemination and the distribution of 'illegal' content.

Roskomnadzor highlighted potential risks associated with Viber's non-compliance, suggesting that the app could be exploited for 'terrorist and extremist purposes, recruiting citizens to commit them, selling drugs, as well as in connection with the posting of illegal information.'

This action follows a fine of 1 million rubles ($9570) imposed on Viber in 2023 for failing to remove 'false' content about Russia's military operation in Ukraine. It also aligns with broader restrictions imposed by Russian authorities on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022.