Russian researcher claims state-backed MAX app secretly records users and monitors VPNs
A Russian researcher has claimed that the state-backed MAX messaging app includes surveillance features that can record users and monitor VPNs. The app's developers, VK, have denied these allegations, labeling them as false. However, a digital rights group has corroborated some of the claims, indicating that the app may indeed have invasive capabilities.
- ▪A researcher claims to have found at least 15 security issues in the MAX app.
- ▪The app allegedly can take screenshots, record audio, and detect VPN usage.
- ▪VK, the developer of MAX, has rejected the allegations as fake and insists user data is protected.
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VPN VPN Privacy & Security Russian researcher claims state-backed MAX app secretly records users and monitors VPNs News By Chiara Castro published 21 May 2026 MAX rejects the allegations as "fake," but a Russian digital rights group has corroborated some of the claims When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Photo Illustration by Samuel Boivin/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Security researcher suggests Russia's MAX app includes surveillance features MAX rejects allegations, deeming the analysis "a fake" RKS Global…
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