French Prime Minister Bans Ministers from Using WhatsApp and Telegram

Members of the French government will no longer be able to use WhatsApp (owned by the extremist Meta company recognized in Russia), Telegram, and Signal messaging apps. According to BFMTV, the relevant circular was signed by Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne.

The document mandates that ministers remove all unapproved messaging applications before December 8, which have not been vetted by the National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI).

“Instant messaging services are playing an increasingly important role in our daily communication. However, these digital tools are not free from security vulnerabilities,” quotes the channel from the circular.

Government members are encouraged to use the French Olvid messenger, which is described in the document as “the only messaging platform that has received security certification from ANSSI.” It requires no SIM card or phone number for use.