TLDR: Russia blocked Snapchat and Roblox and restricted Apple’s FaceTime, saying the apps were used for terrorism, recruitment, and fraud. The move expands Russia’s crackdown on foreign tech platforms.
What Happened
Roskomnadzor (Russian: Роскомнадзор), Russia's Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology, and Mass Media, imposed the bans on Snapchat, Roblox, and restrictions on FaceTime in early December 2025.
- Authorities said the apps were used for “extremist and terrorist” activities, recruitment, fraud, and other crimes.
Details on Each App
- Snapchat: Fully blocked; accused of helping organize terrorist acts, recruit individuals, and commit fraud.
- Roblox: Banned for allegedly spreading extremist and terrorist propaganda, including content deemed illegal under Russian law.
- FaceTime: Restricted; officials said it was used to coordinate terrorist attacks and recruit accomplices.
Government Position
- Roskomnadzor said the bans are necessary to protect national security and prevent the spread of extremist material.
- Officials repeated claims of involvement in “extremist and terrorist” activity.
Broader Context
- Russia has restricted several foreign platforms since 2022, including WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram call features, Facebook, Instagram, and X.
- The government is promoting domestic alternatives like the MAX messaging app, now mandatory on new devices.
- Actions follow ongoing security concerns, including the March 2024 ISIS-claimed concert attack that killed 149 people.
Other Notes
- Apple and Snap have not publicly commented.
- Many users continue accessing the apps through VPNs.