Why in News?
Russia launched MAX, a state-sanctioned messaging app, as part of efforts to control the internet and curb foreign influence. Amid increasing censorship and Western tech bans, this move is seen as a step toward a fully sovereign Russian internet.
Description:
- MAX is a state-sanctioned messaging app developed under the orders of President Vladimir Putin.
- It is part of Russia’s effort to build a “sovereign internet”, fully controlled by the Kremlin.
- The app is expected to be pre-installed on all new smartphones sold in Russia starting September 2025.
Features of MAX:
- Text & video messaging.
- Access to government services.
- Mobile payment integration.
- Servers hosted within Russia, allowing full government access.
Purpose and Intent:
- Curb the use of foreign apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, etc., which are viewed as Western surveillance threats.
- Strengthen state control over information flow, online discourse, and digital services.
- Allow FSB (Russian Federal Security Service) potential access to user data under Russian law.
Strategic Context:
- Part of Russia’s push for a state-controlled digital ecosystem, especially post-Ukraine war sanctions.
- In line with bans on Meta platforms, Google, and TikTok functionalities.
- Follows similar models seen in China (e.g., WeChat).
Experts’ Concerns:
- May function as a mass surveillance tool (“digital gulag”).
- Risks further curtailing digital freedoms and human rights.
- Could replace WhatsApp (used by 70%+ Russians), now expected to be banned.
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