Source link : https://london-news.net/title-the-kremlins-new-war-on-digital-freedom-a-stranglehold-on-messaging-and-internet-access-in-russia/
Since the onset of the invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has increasingly hindered Russian citizens’ access to foreign websites, social media, and, more generally, any information that threatens its narrative.
This crackdown is anticipated to intensify as lawmakers have enacted new regulations imposing fines for searching for “extremist” content online and for advertising VPNs. Experts caution that these changes represent one of the most substantial attacks on digital freedoms in contemporary Russian history.
Additionally, Russian officials are considering replacing WhatsApp with a local app named Max.
These initiatives emerge amid widespread mobile internet outages attributed to threats posed by Ukrainian drones affecting large areas of the country.
The Moscow Times delves into the potential future of internet and communication freedoms in Russia.
On Tuesday, the State Duma approved, in its third and final reading, amendments that impose fines for deliberately searching for and accessing “extremist” materials online, including through VPNs. The changes also criminalize the advertising of VPN services.
Previously, Russian law did not penalize users merely for searching online; penalties were strictly for creating or distributing prohibited content. Should the legislation pass through the Federation Council and receive President Vladimir Putin’s signature, it would be enacted on September 1.
Senator Artyom Sheikin, one of the architects of the proposals, stated…
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Publish date : 2025-07-23 11:50:00
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