Russia blocks Snapchat and Roblox over allegations of 'terrorist activities'
- Last update: 12/05/2025
- 2 min read
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- Business
Russia has restricted access to Snapchat and Roblox, citing concerns over extremist activity. These platforms have joined a growing list of services that the country limits or blocks for security reasons. Additionally, Apple's FaceTime is facing new restrictions, with authorities claiming it is being exploited for "terrorist activities."
The Russian communications and media regulator, Roskomnadzor, confirmed the Snapchat block on Thursday, though the app has been inaccessible in Russia since October 10. According to the agency, law enforcement reported that Snapchat was being used to organize terrorist operations, recruit individuals, and commit fraud and other crimes.
A similar announcement was made regarding Roblox, with the regulator claiming the platform facilitated the spread of extremist propaganda. Roskomnadzor also flagged Roblox for hosting content related to LGBT issues, which the Russian government classifies as extremist material.
FaceTime is also under scrutiny, with the regulator stating that the service is allegedly being used to coordinate terrorist acts, recruit participants, and engage in fraudulent activities.
Roblox responded by emphasizing its commitment to safety, noting that it actively works to prevent harmful content. The company highlighted that it complies with local regulations and aims to provide a positive environment for learning and creative collaboration. In 2022, Roblox reported around 2 million daily users in Russia, compared to 11 million in the United States.
Apple and Snap Inc. have not commented publicly on the situation.
Since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has increasingly restricted international messaging and social media platforms, including bans on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Signal. Telegram faces partial limitations, affecting voice and video communications, while YouTube traffic is reportedly slowed in the country.
The Russian government has long cited terrorism and extremism as reasons for internet restrictions, and these claims have recently been extended to include perceived threats from Ukrainian and anti-Kremlin forces. It remains uncertain if the latest blocks on Snapchat, Roblox, and FaceTime are directly related to such incidents.
Russia has also experienced domestic attacks. In March 2024, a coordinated assault on a Moscow concert venue killed at least 149 people and injured 609. An Afghanistan-based ISIS faction claimed responsibility for the attack.
Analysis: Russia Expands Digital Restrictions
Russia's recent moves to restrict Snapchat, Roblox, and FaceTime mark a continued escalation in the country's control over digital communication platforms. The official rationale focuses on preventing extremist activity, including terrorism, recruitment, and fraud, though independent verification of these claims remains limited.
Roskomnadzor's statements highlight concerns over content related to LGBT issues on Roblox, which the government classifies as extremist material. Snapchat and FaceTime are similarly accused of facilitating illegal coordination, reflecting a broader trend of targeting platforms that enable real-time communication.
The impact on users is significant. Roblox reported around 2 million daily users in Russia in 2022, indicating that these restrictions affect a substantial number of people, particularly younger audiences engaged in online learning and creative collaboration. Apple and Snap Inc. have not publicly addressed the situation, leaving uncertainty over potential legal or technical responses.
These actions fit into a wider pattern of Russian internet regulation since the invasion of Ukraine, which has included partial or full restrictions on WhatsApp, Instagram, Signal, Telegram, and YouTube. While official statements frame these measures as security precautions, the timing suggests a strategic effort to control information and limit access to platforms perceived as threats to the state.
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Aiden Foster
Aiden Foster is a reporter and blogger writing about technology, gadgets, and science. He has experience with podcasts and video content creation.
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