Russia’s New MAX Messaging App Sparks Spying Fears

 

From first September, Russia’s new state-backed messaging app MAX will come pre-installed on every smartphone and tablet sold in the country, igniting strong concerns over data privacy and state monitoring. Built by VK, the company behind Mail.ru and VKnote, the platform launched in March 2025 and has already drawn 18 million users, according to Interfax. Much like China’s WeChat, MAX blends private messaging with access to official government services.

Concerns Over Security 

Independent analyses commissioned by Forbes reveal that MAX includes aggressive tracking functions, weak security protections, and no end-to-end encryption, a combination that could leave conversations exposed to real-time monitoring. Researchers argue this places Russian users at greater risk than those relying on WhatsApp or Telegram. 

Digital rights advocates at Roskomsvoboda acknowledged that MAX requests fewer device permissions than its rivals, but warned that all communications are routed through state-controlled servers, making surveillance far easier. 

“MAX has enormous surveillance potential, as every piece of data within it can be accessed instantly by intelligence agencies,” said Ilya Perevalov, technical expert at Roskomsvoboda and RKS Global. 

He also cautioned that integrating payment systems could heighten risks of data breaches and fraud. 

WhatsApp Faces Crackdown 

At present, WhatsApp remains the most widely used messaging service in Russia, but its days may be numbered. Authorities have confirmed plans to block the app, and by mid-August, restrictions were already applied to voice calls on both Telegram and WhatsApp, citing counterterrorism concerns. The push comes alongside new laws punishing online searches for “extremist content” and imposing harsher penalties on VPN use, reducing citizens’ ability to bypass government restrictions. 

Privacy Under Pressure

Officials insist MAX collects less personal information than foreign competitors. Yet analysts argue the real issue is not the number of permissions but the direct pipeline of data to state agencies. With WhatsApp on the verge of a ban and VPN access under growing pressure, Russian users may soon be left with MAX as their only reliable option, a development critics warn could tighten government control over digital freedoms and reshape the country’s online communications landscape.