Moscow's Internet Blackouts Force Residents to Revert to Outdated Communication Methods

Since March 3, 2026, Moscow has experienced significant internet outages affecting mobile and Wi-Fi services across the city, particularly in central districts. These disruptions have persisted for over a week, prompting residents to turn to outdated communication methods such as pagers, walkie-talkies, and paper maps. Reports indicate that the outages have severely impacted daily life, with residents struggling to communicate and businesses facing substantial financial losses.

United24 Media

The outages have led to a dramatic increase in the sales of alternative communication devices. According to data from Wildberries, Russia’s largest retailer, sales of pagers surged by 73%, while walkie-talkie and landline phone purchases rose by over 25%. Additionally, the demand for paper maps and city guides nearly tripled during this period. The disruptions have been particularly challenging for businesses, with estimates suggesting daily losses could reach up to one billion roubles (approximately $12.5 million).

Russian authorities, including presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov, have attributed the internet restrictions to security concerns, claiming they are necessary to counter potential Ukrainian drone attacks that rely on mobile and GPS networks. Peskov stated that the limitations would remain in place "as long as necessary" to ensure public safety. This rationale has been met with skepticism, as experts argue that such measures are unlikely to effectively thwart drone operations.

Moscow Residents Turn to Walkie-Talkies, Paper Maps Amid Internet Blackout

The internet blackouts have created significant challenges for residents and businesses alike. Many have reported difficulties in ordering taxis, making payments, and communicating with family and friends. The disruptions have particularly affected courier services, taxi apps, and retail operations, leading to complaints from both consumers and business owners. The State Duma, Russia's parliament, has also been affected, with lawmakers expressing frustration over connectivity issues that hinder their work.

The Guardian

The ongoing internet disruptions have raised alarms regarding the Kremlin's increasing control over information and communication. Human Rights Watch has highlighted the broader implications of these restrictions, noting that they are part of a systematic effort to tighten state control over internet infrastructure. The Russian government has previously blocked popular platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube, and there are indications that Telegram may face further restrictions in the near future.

JURIST

While the Russian government maintains that the outages are a security measure, critics argue that they reflect a broader trend of censorship and control over public discourse. The Institute for the Study of War has suggested that these actions are aimed at suppressing internal dissent and maintaining regime stability ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. This dual narrative highlights the tension between state security claims and the rights to free expression and access to information.

Human Rights Watch

• “I’m having trouble ordering a taxi, sending work emails, or even just messaging my family.” — Dmitry, Consultant in Moscow

The Guardian

• “necessary to ensure the safety of our citizens.” — Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin Spokesman

Moscow Residents Turn to Walkie-Talkies, Paper Maps Amid Internet Blackout

• “State control over internet infrastructure has long been the top priority for the Russian government,” — Hugh Williamson, Human Rights Watch

JURIST

As Moscow grapples with these communication challenges, the implications for civil liberties and public discourse remain a critical concern.

Kremlin Tightens Internet Censorship to Prevent Unrest Over Reserve Mobilization – ISW