FaceTime doesn’t work in Russia in December 2025

Russia has cut off FaceTime over unproven terrorism support claims, and the move reflects a trend shared by governments worldwide that push for access to encrypted communication.

Russian authorities said FaceTime helped criminals plan attacks and commit fraud across the country. Of course, they didn’t publish case data or examples that could support those claims.

Users saw the announcement as another attempt to restrict tools the government can’t easily monitor.

People in Moscow noticed problems soon after the block began, and many saw “User unavailable” messages during calls. Recipients could sometimes still view the incoming ring, which added to the confusion.

Apple didn’t comment or confirm whether regulators issued advance demands before the ban took effect. Officials called the move a safety measure, but critics questioned the rationale because the government didn’t present evidence to support its claims.

FaceTime uses end-to-end encryption that prevents intermediaries from viewing call content. Russian agencies can’t easily monitor conversations routed through the service, which likely influenced the decision.

Analysts say the platform’s design limits government visibility in ways officials often resist. The government used similar arguments when restricting WhatsApp, VPN services, and Telegram’s calling features.

The ban arrived as officials promoted MAX, a state-backed calling app that critics say lacks Apple’s privacy safeguards. Many worry it could expand state surveillance because the service follows Russia’s data rules.

MAX began rolling out in 2025 and gained modest traction as a state-backed calling app. Usage will not coincidentally grow now that FaceTime is restricted.

People often switch to whatever tool works consistently, and MAX fits Russia and the European Union’s push for domestic alternatives. The growing support for MAX aligns with Russia’s digital strategy.

Officials have encouraged homegrown apps to replace Western services since sanctions expanded in 2022. The trend has reshaped Russia’s online ecosystem and reduced access to familiar global platforms.

Russia spent 2025 tightening restrictions on Western platforms. Officials limited WhatsApp calls after alleging the service withheld fraud-related data and pressured Telegram over similar concerns involving terrorism cases.

Another step in Russia’s wider crackdown on foreign tech

Critics said the government offered little proof to justify either move. Regulators also blocked Roblox after citing extremist content and other prohibited material.

Many users saw the decision as part of a broader campaign to reduce outside influence. The pattern is a long-term effort to shape a controlled digital environment.

Private communication tools now face greater scrutiny because officials view them as risks. Encrypted services make surveillance more difficult, and governments have repeatedly prioritized visibility over user choice.

The FaceTime ban fits that approach by pushing people toward platforms the government can monitor more easily. The shift carries consequences for everyday communication.

Families rely on FaceTime for video calls across iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Businesses used Apple’s encryption for sensitive conversations. Losing the service pushes people and enterprise customers toward tools that won’t offer the same protection.

Growing global pressure on encrypted services

Russia’s decision arrives during a broader debate about encryption around the world. Several governments have asked technology companies to support special access systems for investigators.

Companies resist those requests because backdoor access weakens security for everyone. Security experts warn that once a platform introduces special access, attackers eventually exploit the same openings.

Governments argue that investigators need reliable tools to prevent threats. The tension between privacy and oversight continues to shape global policy discussions.

Many countries will watch Russia’s move closely. If the ban creates limited public backlash, officials elsewhere may feel more comfortable pushing for similar limits. The outcome could influence expectations for privacy and security in the next decade.

Russia’s digital strategy has leaned toward isolation for years. Officials continue to replace Western services with domestic platforms that fit the country’s legal framework.

Encrypted services protect users from surveillance, theft, and cybercrime, but they also frustrate governments who want more access to our communications. The debate over privacy and power remains far from settled.