Russian Lawmaker Assures New Mandatory Messenger App Will Not Use AI for User Surveillance — Meduza

Anton Nemkin, a member of the Russian State Duma’s Information Policy Committee, dismissed rumors claiming that the national messenger app, Max, would employ AI technology for surveillance or to “write denunciations.” He clarified that these claims are erroneous, stating that Max functions like any standard messaging app, allowing users to send messages, make calls, and share files. Nemkin emphasized that popular apps from major companies and government services have not engaged in such practices over the years. He believes these rumors aim to undermine trust in domestic digital products, asserting that Max undergoes the same security checks as other apps and is designed to facilitate secure communication rather than surveillance. Since September 1, Russian authorities mandated that Max be pre-installed on all phones, while blocking calling features on competing apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, reflecting a push for domestic digital solutions despite resistance even from officials.

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