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WhatsApp is facing pressure in Russia over its own state-run app but there are plenty of other alternatives available.
WhatsApp is popular but the only app of its kind available.
WhatsApp claims the Russian government tried to fully block its service in the country to push its own state messaging app earlier this month. The Meta-owned platform and its origins in the United States have a lot to do with Russia looking to block its access for employees and users.
And it is not the first country to consider blocking WhatsApp and probably won’t be the last. Most of the authorities are aware about WhatsApp and its claimed encryption standards which keeps people secure and also makes it easy to use for nefarious reasons. In case, you are worried about WhatsApp getting blocked, you have 5 more apps with similar security traits and most of the features available for free.
5 WhatsApp Alternatives
Telegram
The other big messaging platform that people use is Telegram, offered by Pavel Durov as a secure app for chats and other interactive features. The company claims to have over 700 million users, offers end-to-end encryption like WhatsApp for secret chats and it is free to use on Android and iOS devices. You also get the ability to share large file sizes and join other chat rooms.
Signal
This one is an easy and obvious choice to replace WhatsApp for many users. In fact, most WhatsApp users prefer having a Signal account on the side, just to keep their content and data private from all entities. Even the calls are encrypted like WhatsApp and no metadata storing is done which keeps you secure. However, you need a mobile number to register for an account.
Wire
The next option to consider as a WhatsApp alternative is Wire. This is also a secure messaging app with its source code available publicly and focuses on being cross-platform across devices. The only issue for some could be that it stores the metadata which is not ideal.
Viber
This app has been around for a few decades and the current version is seen as an ideal substitute for WhatsApp. You get end-to-end encryption, can even self-destruct the messages, support group chats up to 250 members and more. However, Viber shows you ads and the calling features are free but only if you call another Viber user.
Threema
The last on our list is a paid option called Threema which lets you make encrypted calls, and gives you the option to link email or phone number but not a mandatory requirement. It is open source, doesn’t show ads and that’s because it is not free and some might feel the premium is worth it. It is based out of a region where data regulations are strict and no meta storing is done.
Delhi, India, India
February 12, 2026, 11:21 IST
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