Instant messaging application Telegram is confronting new access restrictions and financial penalties in Russia for distributing content opposed by authorities, as reported by official and independent media sources on Tuesday. The platform serves as a vital tool for both public and private communication within the country.
According to the Russian business daily RBC, the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology, and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor) intends to restrict access to Telegram starting Tuesday, with related bandwidth throttling measures already being implemented. The regulator did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Reuters correspondents in Russia noted that the application remains accessible, but video download speeds have become noticeably slower.
Telegram has not provided an immediate response to comment requests.
State-run news agency RIA Novosti reported that Telegram could face fines totaling up to 64 million rubles (approximately $830,000) across eight upcoming court hearings. The penalties are reportedly for allegedly failing to remove specific information as required under Russian law.
Founded by Russian-born entrepreneur Pavel Durov, the app is widely used by various entities—including the Kremlin, courts, media outlets, celebrities, and exiled opposition figures—to disseminate information instantly to large audiences.
In recent months, however, Russian authorities have intensified their oversight of foreign technology platforms.
Since August of last year, Russia has restricted certain calling features on Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing the platforms of refusing to share information with law enforcement in cases involving fraud and terrorism. In December, access to Apple's video calling application FaceTime was blocked.
These restrictions remain in effect.
Last year, the Russian government launched a state-supported alternative application named MAX. Critics have raised concerns that the app could be used for surveillance, though state media has denied these allegations.
A previous attempt by Russia to block Telegram in 2018 was ultimately unsuccessful.