Instagram Introduces Encrypted Direct Messaging In Ukraine, Russia

As Meta steps up its efforts to protect users in Ukraine, it is now opening encrypted direct messaging to all adults in the country.

Users in Ukraine will receive a notification alerting them to the option of using end-to-end encrypted chats, allowing them to choose a more secure method of conversation if they so choose.

TechCrunch noted that other Meta apps, such as Messenger and WhatsApp, already offer end-to-end encryption capabilities. 

The company said it decided to roll out the feature to citizens in Russia as well to aid activists in organizing protests and speaking out without the risk of being spied on.

“Prominent Russian creators and influencers, activists and musicians, are using Facebook and Instagram to access information and speak out against the invasion,” explained Nick Clegg, Meta’s President of Global Affairs.

“We want them to continue to be able to do so. And we want people in Russia to continue to be able to hear from President Zelenskyy and others in Ukraine,” he added.

Protocol reported that in retaliation to Meta’s new policies, Russia has begun partially restricting the use of Facebook in the country.

Clegg revealed that “degradation of the service” in the region was “definitely discernible,” especially with posts involving images and videos, which could prevent Russian citizens from receiving news of what’s actually occurring outside its borders.

This could be why Meta has refused Ukraine’s request to completely block its services in Russia, though it has restricted state media from advertising or monetizing on its platforms.

“We think it is essential, as long as this continues, that ordinary Russians can use our services to express themselves, organize and protest, and reach out to family and friends in the community,” he said.

[via TechCrunch and Protocol, cover image via Primakov / Shutterstock.com]