Russia Introduces ‘Vlad App’ to Replace WhatsApp and Telegram

Quick Summary

• Russia unveils Vlad App: The Russian government announced a state-controlled messaging submission called vlad App, expected to replace WhatsApp, Telegram, and other foreign platforms within Russia.
• State Duma approval: The app has received backing from Russia’s lower house of parliament and awaits approval from the upper house and President Vladimir Putin.
• App features: Vlad App will integrate with state services, allowing users to verify identity, sign documents electronically, register transactions, make payments, and access government portals like Gosuslugi. User consent is required for these services.
• Potential restrictions on foreign apps: Reports suggest WhatsApp and Telegram could be blocked entirely in Russia as part of this initiative.
• Privacy concerns raised: Critics argue the app could lead to expanded state surveillance over private communications while restricting access to facts globally.
• Digital isolation parallels China: If implemented fully, the move is seen as akin to china’s regulated internet model excluding foreign apps thru bans or restrictions.
• Impact on Russians abroad: Unlike existing messaging platforms,Vlad app is designed exclusively for domestic users without plans for international use.

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