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Russia’s Max app contains backdoor allowing state surveillance of users

Researchers found that Russia's Max super-app includes a backdoor enabling the government to spy on millions of users across messaging and payment services.

Russias Max app has powerful backdoor to spy on users, researchers find
File photo Russias Max app has powerful backdoor to spy on users, researchers find Photo: The News International

Secret screenshot and data access

The application can secretly take screenshots of user devices without their knowledge. It also grants access to information stored within its various services and mini-apps.

Code injection and cyberattack risk

Experts say the system allows code injection into mini-apps which could facilitate cyberattacks. This capability lets the platform impersonate users while monitoring their communications inside the ecosystem.

Pressure on public sector groups

Reports indicate that teachers, students and public workers face pressure to use Max for daily tasks. The software cannot access separate apps like Telegram or WhatsApp despite local bans on those platforms.

Reported by one outlet

Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.

Reported by

1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.