The 'Alya' neural network, integrated into 'Max'
The 'Alya' neural network, integrated into 'Max', suggests to users in chat that they should install other messengers instead of it — Telegram, Signal, or WhatsApp.
Consensus
- The AI assistant 'Alice', developed by Yandex, is embedded in the messaging app 'Max'.
- The AI warns that 'Max' lacks end-to-end encryption.
- User data such as IP addresses, activity times, contacts, device type, and provider information is collected by 'Max'.
- This data may be shared with third parties, including state agencies, upon legal request.
- The AI recommends using a separate smartphone ('maxophone') for 'Max' if the main device contains sensitive data.
- The AI advises using browser versions of 'Max' and restricting app permissions like location, contacts, microphone, and camera.
- The AI suggests switching to messaging apps with end-to-end encryption, such as Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram (in secret chat mode).
Points of divergence
- The AI recommends using a separate smartphone (‘maxophone’) and not installing the app on a primary device with banking apps or confidential data. — meduza
- The AI mentions previously discovered undocumented features in 'Max', such as forced updates bypassing app stores, voice call analysis, and vulnerabilities to attacks. — tg_svobodnieslova
- The AI recommends using VPNs and avoiding online services integrated with government systems. — tg_svobodnieslova
Coverage (2 sources)
- No one trusts the messenger «Max». Even the neural network «Yandex» built into it — Meduza
- Built-in neural network from 'Yandex' in messenger Max suggested installing instead of it blocked Telegram, Signal... — Вёрстка