Russia Blocks Access to Popular Messaging App Viber
Russia's communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, has announced the blocking of access to the popular messaging app Viber. The decision, taken on Friday, marks the latest addition to the list of social media platforms banned by Russian authorities, as reported by Reuters.
In a statement, Roskomnadzor explained that Viber was blocked for violating regulations related to the prevention of terrorism, extremism, and drug trafficking.
Rakuten Group, the parent company of Viber, has not provided an immediate comment on the matter.
Last year, Rakuten Group founder and CEO Hiroshi Mikitani stated in a Zoom interview during a visit to Kyiv that Viber was being used as a tool against Russian propaganda. He remarked, “Unlike other social media platforms, we have been very clear that we will block all fake news and propaganda from Russia.”
This decision is seen as another example of Russia's strict policies regarding social media regulation.
