Russia's state-backed MAX app may know if you are using a VPN to bypass censorship — here is everything we know

Researchers at RKS Global warn that MAX is likely not the only VK-developed application with this tracking functionality.

• Security researchers found Russia's MAX app can monitor VPN users
• MAX rejects allegations, saying data is used to ensure high-quality service
• Experts urge removing the app from any device where a VPN is used

A user on Russian security forum Habr has claimed that Russia's state-backed messaging service, MAX, can monitor VPN users, claiming it turns "the national messenger into a state spyware tool."

The user published details that they say show the app "contains a spy module." After being contacted by TechRadar, technical experts at RKS Global — a digital rights organization focused on Russia — said they were able to "fully confirm" the findings following an independent analysis of the app's latest version.

RKS Global told ...