Russian authorities have sharply increased internet censorship, disruptions, and surveillance since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. This growing control harms users’ rights and isolates the country’s internet from the global web, according to a recent report.
The report, titled Disrupted, Throttled, and Blocked, details how Russia uses advanced technology and strict laws to block websites, slow down connections, and limit access to tools that help people bypass censorship. These measures are often justified by the government as necessary for national security and public safety, but they severely restrict free access to information.
Experts and journalists interviewed for the report described a growing pattern of internet shutdowns and targeted blocking of websites. The government has blocked thousands of sites, including independent media, human rights groups, opposition pages, and major social networks like Facebook and Instagram. Accessing blocked platforms often requires a Virtual Private Network (VPN), but many Russians lack the knowledge to use these tools. Meanwhile, authorities continue to block VPN services themselves.
The rise in censorship has pushed many users toward Russian-made browsers and social media platforms. These services often show government-approved content and face fewer restrictions, but they also raise concerns about user privacy. Personal data shared on these platforms is at risk of being handed over to law enforcement.
Russian law requires websites with advertising to allocate a portion of their ad space to “social advertisements” that promote state interests. For example, the Yandex browser has repeatedly shown ads encouraging citizens to join the Russian armed forces. Yandex claims to prohibit political advertising but complies with government rules on social ads.
Foreign tech companies operating in Russia are also under pressure. Apple, Google, Mozilla, and others face threats of fines or bans if they do not comply with Russia’s content restrictions. Cloudflare, a popular content delivery network in Russia, reported it cannot confirm government requests for blocking websites and denies blocking sites at Russia’s demand.
Responses from major tech companies revealed their difficult position. Apple said it follows “lawful orders” to keep services running in Russia. Amazon Web Services (AWS) confirmed it complies with sanctions and no longer accepts new Russian clients. Mozilla emphasized its commitment to an open internet globally.
Russia uses specialized equipment called TSPU to enforce internet controls. This technology, installed across most internet providers, enables the government to conduct “internet isolation” drills and regional shutdowns. Users have reported internet outages during these tests, which affect everyday services like online banking and access to state websites.
The government has also taken over key parts of Russia’s internet infrastructure. More than half of Russian IP addresses are now managed by seven state-linked providers. The creation of a national domain name system and government security certificates further strengthens state control.
Similar censorship and internet disruptions occur in Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia. This shows how internet control extends beyond Russia’s borders in the ongoing conflict.
Human rights experts call on Russia to end all censorship that violates international laws on free expression. Restrictions on internet access should be transparent, lawful, and limited in scope. The government must stop forcing tech companies to share user data and block content unfairly.
Foreign and Russian tech firms should resist government demands that break international standards. They should protect user privacy and avoid enabling censorship. At the same time, global governments and organizations need to support tools that help users bypass censorship and keep their online information safe.
Russian authorities have quietly built a broad system of internet control. While many restrictions are invisible to the average user, their impact on information access and freedom of expression is severe.
