Users were urged to relocate their photographs and videos of Instagram before it was shut down. They were also advised to utilize Russia’s own “competitive internet platforms.” The email was sent by the Russian communications regulator.

Due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Meta, owner of Facebook (FB), allowed the temporary adjustment in its hate speech policy. They said it was wrong to stop Ukrainians from “expressing their resistance and fury at the invading military forces”. The decision was greeted with outrage in Russia, where authorities have opened a criminal investigation against Meta. Prosecutors on Friday asked a court to designate the US tech giant as an “extremist organization”.

According to Instagram’s CEO, the ban will affect 80 million users. Russia has already blocked Facebook in the nation. This is in response to what Russia claims are limits on access to Russian media on the network. Roskomnadzor described the decision to allow calls for violence against Russians as a breach of international law.

“We need to ensure the psychological health of citizens, especially children, and adolescents, to protect them from harassment and insults online,” it said, explaining the decision to close down the platform.

More companies have begun to exit Russia and services have also begun closing down. As the war continues, most brands do not like to be associated with “invaders”. Joining Instagram were companies like McDonald’s, Starbucks, Carlsberg, and Heineken.

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