Russia mandates state-backed MAX messenger app on all devices from Sept 1; critics fear surveillance, state denies claims

Russia orders state-backed MAX messenger app, a WhatsApp rival, pre-installed on phones and tablets

Item 1 of 2 A keyboard is placed in front of a displayed WhatsApp logo in this illustration taken February 21, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/ File Photo[1/2]A keyboard is placed in front of a displayed WhatsApp logo in this illustration taken February 21, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/ File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tabSummaryCompanies'National messenger' to be pre-installed on devicesNew app is being integrated with government servicesCritics say it's a spy app,...