Russia Throttles Telegram, Fines for Non-Compliance

Russian authorities have begun throttling access to the Telegram messaging app and imposed fines on the platform for failing to comply with local laws, escalating efforts to steer users toward a state-backed alternative amid ongoing tensions over data privacy and content moderation.

The restrictions, announced by the communications regulator Roskomnadzor on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, include slowing down the app's traffic and limiting features such as video and photo uploads. Users across Russia reported difficulties downloading the app and accessing media content starting over the weekend, with slowdowns becoming more pronounced by midweek. Roskomnadzor stated that the measures stem from Telegram's refusal to store Russian user data within the country and to remove content deemed extremist or linked to criminal activities, including fraud and terrorism. A Moscow court fined Telegram 11 million rubles, about $142,400, on Wednesday for not deleting prohibited material, with officials warning of additional penalties totaling up to 64 million rubles in upcoming hearings. The agency also seeks to recover 9 million rubles in previously unpaid fines.