Multiple Russians face communication restrictions on WhatsApp.
Effective June 1, 2025, WhatsApp, owned by Meta, will cease support for millions of outdated smartphones, including various iPhone and Android devices, according to 9to5Mac. This decision comes as the messaging app will no longer function on devices running iOS 15.1 and earlier, as well as Android 5.1 and earlier versions.
Specifically impacted devices include the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and the first-generation iPhone SE for Apple users. Among Android devices, an extensive list is affected, including the Samsung Galaxy S4, Samsung Galaxy Note 3, Sony Xperia Z1, LG G2, Huawei Ascend P6, Moto G (first generation), Motorola Razr HD, and Moto E (2014).
WhatsApp users who own these devices are advised to either update their software or invest in new devices to continue using the messaging app.
It has been noted that Ukrainian criminal organizations have been exploiting accounts of Russian schoolchildren on WhatsApp. Scammers rent out the minor's accounts for $4 to $8 per hour to conduct remote phone fraud, as reported by the National News Service.
It is worth noting that Meta, which owns WhatsApp, has been designated as an extremist organization and is, therefore, banned in Russia.
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- Due to WhatsApp's decision to discontinue support for certain outdated smartphones, individuals using devices like the iPhone 6, Samsung Galaxy Note 3, or Moto E (2014) may need to upgrade to newer gadgets such as smartphones to continue using the messaging app.
- With the increased exploitation of WhatsApp accounts by Ukrainian criminal organizations and the app's popularity among Russian schoolchildren, it raises concerns about the security of personal information, especially given the ban on Meta (WhatsApp's owner) in Russia.
