Khinshtein did not rule out that WhatsApp could be blocked in Russia
The head of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy commented on the possibility of blocking the popular messenger WhatsApp (owned by the Meta* corporation, which is recognized as extremist in the Russian Federation).
Although such measures are not currently envisaged, it is possible that Russia will resort to restrictions in the future.
Alexander Khinshtein gave this comment to RIA Novosti journalists.
According to the expert, the question of blocking the messenger is not on the table yet.
However, such measures cannot be ruled out in the near future.
Courts regularly fine the company for failure to comply with the rules of work in the Russian Federation, Khinshtein recalled.
Therefore, if violations continue, it is possible that the Russian authorities will decide to resort to extreme measures. This especially concerns the refusal to assist the Russian authorities in the fight against extremism and terrorism.
Earlier, Pavel Durov stated that WhatsApp could be wiretapped by US intelligence agencies.
*The activities of social networks owned by Meta Corporation are banned in the Russian Federation as extremist
