Russia slowly trying to splinter its internet from rest of world, analysts say
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- Russia is gradually isolating its internet from the global network through escalating mobile internet blackouts, increased traffic restrictions, and blocks on key platforms like Telegram, impacting millions of users.
- Unlike Iran's more visible internet shutdowns, Russia's decentralized internet infrastructure and multiple independent service providers make its censorship efforts more opaque and piecemeal.
- Since March, Telegram has faced widespread blocking across over 500 networks, with authorities planning a full ban in early April, replacing it with a government-controlled messaging app called Max.
- Mobile internet shutdowns have become routine in various regions, including Moscow's city center, severely disrupting daily activities such as banking and communication, prompting increased sales of alternative communication tools like pagers and paper maps.
- Analysts warn that Russia’s censorship measures are intensifying, with authorities testing the economy's resilience to strict internet restrictions and potentially preparing for complete home network shutdowns similar to tactics seen in Iran.
