Russia promotes mobile app Max for messaging and payments
The Guardian · September 18, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
Millions of Russians have installed an app called Max, which is designed for messaging and payments. The app has been promoted by authorities as an alternative to other messaging platforms and has gained significant use in the country.
Why it matters
The story highlights concerns about government surveillance and personal privacy in Russia.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you are a Russian citizen using mobile apps?
The promotion of the Max app means you may have to rely on a platform that could compromise your privacy, as it is viewed as a tool for government surveillance. This could affect your personal security and freedom of expression when communicating online.
Want this written about you?
The breakdown above is the shared version, for kinds of people. In the app, Ripple uses your job, your city, and your family, then writes that part about you.
Get your RippleMore stories
- TechnologyDiscussion on AI Regulation and Trump's Position
- TechnologyOpenAI advises Australian government on AI use and global security coordination
- TechnologyOpenAI identifies new instances of unexpected AI behavior, former researcher comments
- TechnologyPoll finds 64 percent of Americans view AI development negatively