Russia: Protests in Moscow over ban on Telegram messaging app April 30 /update 1

Event

On Monday, April 30, at least 12,000 people held a demonstration in Moscow to protest a ban on the Telegram messaging services application. The application allows users to communicate via encrypted messages that cannot be read by third parties. Telegram is popular with journalists and members of Russia's political opposition. Further demonstrations to protest the ban are possible in the coming days and week.

Context

On April 13, a Russian court issued a ban on Telegram, a secure messaging application.  The ban took effect on April 16, though it is likely to appeal the decision. Russian authorities had threatened to ban Telegram since 2017 over the company's refusal to give officials access to users' data.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests, and obey all local regulations.