The Max application, approved by Putin, becomes mandatory in Russia and the occupied territories, giving authorities control over citizens' communications and collecting personal data.

Max, a messaging application imposed by the Kremlin, becomes mandatory on all devices in Russia and occupied territories. Approved by Vladimir Putin, it serves as the main communication channel between citizens and authorities, expanding digital control. The application collects personal data, including users' location and contacts, which can be shared with authorities. This threatens the vital communication of abducted Ukrainian children and could block access to online education provided by Ukraine. Additionally, Max is part of a broader strategy of censorship and control, normalizing digital surveillance in Russia.