Roskomnadzor, the Russian federal executive authority responsible for overseeing communications, information technology, and mass communications, is poised to introduce stringent monitoring measures over internet usage to address circumventions of government-imposed website blocks. This new mandate, flagged by sources such as Vedomosti, could enable authorities to identify users who access restricted sites.
Under the proposed order, which is projected to take effect within three months from its official announcement, licensed telecommunication operators will be obliged to relay information to Roskomnadzor pertaining to the communication tools and devices users employ to access the internet. The directive focuses primarily on those attempting to bypass the existing internet restrictions, which have become more prevalent as government efforts to control online content intensify.
A significant aspect of the order stipulates operators must deliver user-related data within 15 days of activation of internet services, enhancing Roskomnadzor’s ability to track internet activities linked to VPN services and proxy servers frequently used to access blocked content. By compiling this data, the regulatory body aims to mitigate exposure to potentially harmful information deemed illegal under Russian law.
Industry experts, such as Herman Klimenko, chair of the Foundation for the Development of Digital Economy, speculate on the motivations behind Roskomnadzor’s new oversight capabilities. “I think Roskomnadzor would like to know what portion of people use VPN services,” he shared, indicating a strong inclination to assess user behavior patterns as the government continues to shape its digital policies.
Telecommunication experts also provide perspective on the practical execution of these directives. For example, Evgeny Tsarev of RTM Group noted, “There are no consequences for this...but I can give the example of such a wonderful democratic country as France.” Tsarev highlights potential future ramifications, referencing punitive measures against users who access restricted content without clear current repercussions.
The technical infrastructure to support Roskomnadzor’s monitoring efforts already exists, with operators mandated since 2019 to install Technical Means of Countering Threats (TSPU). These systems facilitate blocking unauthorized access and filtering internet traffic based on government guidelines. According to Roskomnadzor’s plans, advancements to TSPU will cost up to 59 billion rubles over the next decade, implying significant investment for enhancing regulatory oversight.
Despite growing user sophistication, especially with VPN technology, the initiative is not without criticism. Experts point out there are already numerous VPN protocols and services available today, allowing users to mask their internet activities effectively. Although the government is beefing up its monitoring capabilities, many believe the average citizen might find it challenging to switch to more covert methods of accessing prohibited sites.
Tougher online regulations among Russian internet domains have gained traction, particularly as the military conflict with Ukraine continues to influence public sentiment and government censorship policies. Since this escalation, Roskomnadzor has blocked over one million websites, including popular sites like Facebook and Instagram.
With the enforcement of the new order appears inevitable, questions persist about the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Dmitry Gorbunov, partner at the law firm Rustam Kurmaev and Partners, asserts, “The order requires operators to submit user equipment data...which does raise concerns about user privacy and could lead to undue operational burdens for smaller service providers.”
Finally, as the internet continues to evolve and be shaped by public policy, users navigate these new hostile waters of digital interaction. While there is no immediate implication of punitive measures against users employing VPN services, the most significant changes lie on the horizon, leaving many to ponder what future regulations might look like.
