Users in Russia experienced disruptions in accessing the messaging app Telegram, as reports surfaced that the service's mobile and web versions were unreachable. This comes in the context of increasing restrictions by the Russian government on various messaging services. There are concerns that Telegram could be banned entirely by April 1, following recent legislation that targets the platform for non-compliance with local laws.

Starting in mid-2025, audio and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp will also be blocked in Russia, as authorities claim that these service providers are not adhering to national regulations. The crackdown on communication services indicates a broader strategy by the Russian government to control the flow of information and restrict alternative communication methods, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Additionally, other messaging services, like Signal and Viber, have already been blocked, and many websites, including YouTube, are inaccessible without the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The Russian government is becoming increasingly aggressive against the use of VPNs, with parliamentary officials suggesting that intelligence services may attempt to restrict or block VPN traffic in the coming months, further affecting citizens' access to information and communication.