EU sanctions target Russian state-backed messaging app
The European Union has imposed sanctions on the Russian media company VK and its subsidiary for operating the 'Max' messaging app. The EU claims the app is a state-backed surveillance tool used to suppress dissent and track citizens.
Why it matters
This reflects the ongoing digital conflict between Western powers and Russia, highlighting the use of technology as a tool for state repression.
Moscow has for months been pushing Russians to install Max -- a super-app that lacks encryption and that critics say could be used to track people (Igor IVANKO) The European Union on Monday announced sanctions against the company behind Russia's state-backed messaging app Max, which it said had been used to help clamp down on dissent.
Moscow has for months been pushing Russians to install Max -- a super-app that lacks encryption and that critics say could be used to track people.
The authorities have throttled WhatsApp and Telegram, the country's two largest messaging apps, and forced civil servants, state companies, schools and government agencies to move their communications onto Max.
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