Russia cracks down on social media: WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram, among other foreign platforms, are banned

Access to several major international digital platforms has suddenly been cut off in Russia. According to media reports, popular platforms like WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are no longer working within the country. It is reported that the domain names of these websites have been removed from Russia's national Domain Name System (DNS).

Ban on Foreign Sites

Previously, some platforms were slowed down in Russia, but this time the situation is different. Under the current measure, these websites have become completely "invisible." When a user tries to access these sites, the system cannot locate the corresponding IP address. As a result, an error message appears on the screen stating that such a domain does not exist.

Media Websites Also Affected

According to reports, not only social media platforms but also the websites of several international media organizations have been affected. These include sites like the BBC, Deutsche Welle, Radio Free Europe, and Radio Liberty. Furthermore, the Tor Browser, used for anonymous browsing, has also been blocked.

Strictness under the National DNS System

Internet service providers in Russia are mandated to use the country's national DNS system. This system operates under the supervision of Roskomnadzor, a government agency that enforces internet control under the "Sovereign Internet" law.

According to reports, Russia has gradually begun restricting the use of alternative DNS services, such as Google DNS, since 2021. This latest move is being seen as a major and stricter step towards internet control.

Tightening the noose on foreign digital platforms

Experts believe this action is a major step towards virtually eliminating access to foreign digital platforms and media outlets in Russia. This has cut off people living inside the country from many global services and news sources.