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Russia criminalizes extremist searches, forces MAX, hikes ISP fees

7/24/2026

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Russia enacted a law criminalizing “extremist” online searches.
The state-backed MAX messenger reached over 2 million users by July and will be pre-installed on all Russian smartphones.
President Vladimir Putin ordered a list of “unfriendly” platforms to be restricted.
Internet provider license fees rose from 7,500 rubles (about $90) to 1 million rubles (over $12,300) last year.

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Story summary

Russia enacted a law criminalizing “extremist” online searches.
The state-backed MAX messenger reached over 2 million users by July and will be pre-installed on all Russian smartphones.
President Vladimir Putin ordered a list of “unfriendly” platforms to be restricted.
Internet provider license fees rose from 7,500 rubles (about $90) to 1 million rubles (over $12,300) last year.