How Russia is using the Max app to spy on its own citizens

Over the past 18 months, tens of millions of Russians have been forced to install a new app on their phones — a purple-blue button designed for messaging and payments, called Max.

According to The Guardian, authorities have advertised it as a patriotic alternative to Telegram and WhatsApp. Russian celebrities have promoted it in rap and comedy videos. This summer, it became the most-used messaging app in the country.

Researchers say Max can impersonate users and inject code into mini-apps, creating potential for cyberattacks. However, it cannot penetrate apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, which are banned in Russia.

Many state employees, students, teachers and pupils have faced pressure to use Max, while some universities have made the app mandatory for access to buildings and dormitories.

Among the Russian elite, use of Max appears largely formal, while Telegram and Signal continue to be used. Max has also not yet replaced Telegram as the main source of news.

Researcher Roya Ensafi warned that the rapid spread of Max in Russia should serve as an “alarm” for how authoritarian governments can control digital communication.