Story perspectives

Russia Intensifies VPN Crackdown, Enhances Internet Monitoring

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Maksut Shadayev, Russia's Digital Minister, announced plans to reduce VPN usage while minimizing user disruption.
The government has blocked over 400 VPNs, a 70% increase since last year, and has restricted access to foreign platforms.
New laws allow authorities to cut off mobile internet without justification, creating 'white lists' of approved sites that often exclude popular foreign services.
Russia is enhancing its internet monitoring capabilities to achieve complete traffic oversight.

1 of 1

Story summary

Maksut Shadayev, Russia's Digital Minister, announced plans to reduce VPN usage while minimizing user disruption.
The government has blocked over 400 VPNs, a 70% increase since last year, and has restricted access to foreign platforms.
New laws allow authorities to cut off mobile internet without justification, creating 'white lists' of approved sites that often exclude popular foreign services.
Russia is enhancing its internet monitoring capabilities to achieve complete traffic oversight.