Facebook-Parent Meta Bans RT, More Russian State-Affiliated Media Outlets: Here's Why

Meta confirmed that this decision comes after detecting foreign interference activities tied to these state-controlled networks.

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, has implemented a worldwide ban on Russian state-affiliated media networks such as Rossiya Segodnya, RT, and other associated outlets. The move, according to a Reuters report, is in response to these organisations allegedly using deceptive tactics to conduct covert influence operations online.

In a statement, Meta confirmed that this decision comes after detecting foreign interference activities tied to these state-controlled networks. "After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets. Rossiya Segodnya, RT, and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity," Meta's statement said. The enforcement of this ban will roll out in the coming days across all of Meta's platforms.

Meta Steps Up Efforts To Curb Foreign Influence

The global ban is seen as a significant intensification of Meta's efforts to curb foreign influence. For years, the tech giant has imposed limitations on Russian state media, including reducing their reach and restricting their advertising capabilities. However, this is the first time the company has enforced a full ban across its suite of services. Meta had previously opted for moderation efforts over outright removal, but recent geopolitical developments have likely prompted the more aggressive approach.

This new action follows charges brought against two RT employees in the United States earlier in September 2024. The employees were accused of participating in a scheme to hire an American company to produce content aimed at influencing the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, further emphasised the severity of the issue by encouraging countries to treat Russian broadcasters like RT in the same way they handle covert intelligence operations. 

In response, RT has been dismissive of these allegations, accusing the U.S. government of attempting to block its work as a legitimate media organisation. The Russian embassy has so far refrained from commenting on the situation, according to the Reuters report.

Meta also revealed that it had been monitoring these Russian state-controlled networks for some time. The company noted that these organisations have used various methods to evade detection and continue their influence activities, a behaviour Meta expects to persist despite the latest enforcement. The social media giant is prepared for continued efforts by these networks to sidestep restrictions.

Meta’s decision represents the latest in a series of measures by global platforms and governments aimed at curbing foreign interference in domestic affairs, particularly as nations gear up for crucial political events like the upcoming U.S. elections. The ban signals Meta’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its platforms amid growing concerns about the role of state-backed media in shaping public discourse online.