Critics say Max, a WhatsApp rival, could be used to track users, though state media says it is not a spying app

A Russian state-backed messenger application called Max, a rival to WhatsApp that critics say could be used to track users, must be pre-installed on all mobile phones and tablets bought in the country starting next month, the Russian government said on Thursday.

The decision to promote Max comes as Moscow, locked in a standoff with the west over Ukraine, is seeking greater control over the internet. The Kremlin said in a statement that Max, which will be integrated with government services, would be on a list of mandatory pre-installed apps on all “gadgets”, including mobile phones and tablets, sold in Russia from 1 September.

  • Ilovethebomb@sh.itjust.works
    61·
    2 days ago

    rival to WhatsApp that critics say could be used to track users

    What other reason could they possibly have for requiring this?

    • communism@lemmy.ml
      2·
      2 days ago

      Both can be true at the same time. Countries want to be able to spy on their citizens, and don’t want their geopolitical rivals to be able to spy on their citizens.