Russia promotes state-controlled super app MAX to limit Western communication tools

Foreign media: The Russian government is vigorously promoting a state-controlled "super app" called MAX, encouraging users to switch to MAX by restricting the voice and video call functions of WhatsApp and Telegram.

This move is part of the Russian president's initiative to establish a "sovereign internet," aiming to reduce reliance on Western technology and strengthen control over the Internet.

MAX is similar to WeChat in China. The Russian government claims it can prevent online fraud and protect vulnerable groups such as children. Currently, more than 45 million Russians have registered for MAX accounts. However, MAX does not offer end-to-end encryption, and user data may be accessed by the government, raising concerns about privacy and surveillance.

Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1846604863980556/

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