Russia’s federal communications and media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, officially blocked the Snapchat application nationwide, alleging that the platform has been used to organize and carry out criminal and terrorist activities inside the country.
In a statement released on Friday, the regulator said the ban took effect on 10 October 2025, in accordance with central management rules governing public communications networks.
Roskomnadzor accused the app of facilitating “the organization and execution of terrorist acts on Russian territory, the recruitment of perpetrators, as well as fraud and other crimes targeting Russian citizens.”
The move expands an ongoing campaign by Russian authorities to limit the operation of foreign communication platforms. Roskomnadzor has previously imposed partial restrictions on several Western messaging apps, saying the measures were necessary to curb the rise in online fraud and digital scams.
Snapchat, known for its disappearing photo and video messages, is widely used for private communication, with content typically vanishing seconds after being viewed or within 24 hours.
Russian lawmakers have voiced similar concerns in recent months. The State Duma has warned that other foreign platforms, including Telegram and WhatsApp, could also be exploited for pressure, manipulation or financial fraud.
Officials say the decision to block Snapchat is rooted in national security priorities. While the regulator did not detail specific cases linked to the platform, authorities argue that features enabling anonymity and fast-vanishing content make it difficult for law enforcement to track illicit activities.
The ban places Snapchat alongside a growing list of digital platforms facing operational restrictions in Russia amid heightened government control over online communication channels.
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