RCN technical issues impacting voice calls in messaging platforms explained by an IT specialist
In a move aimed at protecting citizens and enhancing national security, Russian authorities have taken steps to restrict voice calls on the messaging apps Telegram and WhatsApp. These measures are primarily to combat scams, extortion, and the recruitment of citizens for sabotage and terrorist activities, which have been reported widely on these platforms.
According to Mikhail Shurygin, chairman of the ROCIT commission on cloud technologies, hosting, and information security, the share of Russians targeted by scammers in WhatsApp has increased by 3.5 times compared to last year. Shurygin, along with Anton Nemkin, a member of the State Duma committee on information policy, IT, and communications, has suggested that these protected communication channels should not depend on foreign companies.
One of the concerns is that these apps bypass traditional telecom operator networks, which complicates monitoring and controlling the spread of extremist content and criminal activities. Because these platforms use internet-based calling rather than the conventional operator infrastructure, Russian security services and regulators find it harder to exert legal oversight and ensure compliance with domestic laws.
Roskomnadzor, the Russian federal service for supervision in the sphere of communications, information technology, and mass media, has partially restricted calls in Telegram and WhatsApp. The Ministry of Digital Development provided this explanation about the messengers, stating that the crime in these messengers is not a coincidence, but a result of the lack of control.
Shurygin believes that the crime in these messengers is not a coincidence but a result of the lack of control. He suggests creating our own protected communication channels to further protect Russians and ensure digital sovereignty. The measures are due to be lifted once these services comply with Russian laws; other app functions remain mostly unaffected.
In summary, the Russian authorities' actions reflect a combined effort to protect individuals from fraud and maintain state control over communication channels that have become conduits for criminal and intelligence threats. The restrictions on voice calls aim to reduce scam calls and financial fraud, particularly among elderly citizens vulnerable to manipulation, prevent recruitment for sabotage and terrorism, and address regulatory control issues related to the apps' internet-based calling services.
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