Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder of Telegram, said attempts by Russia to block virtual private networks (VPNs) had disrupted a domestic payment system, adding that tens of millions of users were pushing back against tighter digital controls.
Authorities have repeatedly restricted mobile internet access, expanded powers to shut down mass communications, and targeted messaging platforms and VPN services in what some observers describe as a sweeping crackdown. A technical failure on Friday, which has not been fully explained, caused widespread disruption—forcing the Moscow Metro to allow passengers through turnstiles without payment and prompting some venues, including a regional zoo, to switch to cash-only transactions.
Durov framed the situation as a renewed wave of “digital resistance,” saying many Russians were actively seeking ways to bypass restrictions.
Sberbank acknowledged a technical issue but did not provide details. Some local media reports linking the outage to state efforts to block certain websites or VPNs were later removed.
Officials have defended the restrictions on VPNs and platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram as necessary for national security, citing threats such as attacks linked to Ukraine and alleged sabotage involving Western intelligence agencies.
Telegram, which has more than a billion users globally, has faced slowdowns in Russia and scrutiny in a criminal investigation tied to terrorism-related accusations against Durov. Russian authorities have also claimed the platform has been infiltrated by Ukrainian and NATO intelligence, allegations the company denies.
Telegram has instead suggested that Moscow is encouraging users to migrate to a state-backed messaging app, MAX, which has reportedly been promoted in schools and universities—an effort that has drawn criticism from some users.
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