Putin Widens Effort to Control Russia’s Internet

The Russian government's efforts to tighten control over the internet have intensified with the introduction of a state-approved messaging app. This move has raised concerns that authorities may be preparing to block popular apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. The new messaging app, called BeSafe, is being marketed as a secure alternative to foreign-owned platforms. However, experts suggest that the government's real intention is to establish greater control over digital communication within the country. The push for BeSafe comes amid a broader crackdown on online freedom, including the enforcement of a law that requires foreign tech companies to store Russian users' data within the country. This has sparked fears that the Kremlin is seeking to create a more isolated and censored internet environment in Russia. The article highlights the government's ongoing efforts to exert its influence over the digital landscape, which could have significant implications for the free flow of information and the ability of Russian citizens to communicate freely online.