- Russia blocks apps and mobile internet, targeting VPNs to control online information flow.
- Millions of Russians turn to VPNs and alternative tools despite government restrictions.
- Experts warn casual users may rely on state-approved apps as censorship tightens.
Russia has taken a major step to expand internet restrictions by blocking popular apps and removing VPN services from its App Store, while limiting mobile data access. The move aims to control online information flow, as millions of users turn to workarounds to bypass growing censorship.
Russia Blocks VPN Apps, Tightens Internet Crackdown
Russian authorities have tightened internet controls by cutting mobile data and blocking popular apps, including VPN services. Apple also removed several VPN apps from the Russian App Store, such as Streisand, V2Box, and v2RayTun.
Telegram founder Pavel Durov criticized the removals, raising concerns about growing digital restrictions. Under a 2024 law, mobile internet access can now be limited without explanation.
Officials maintain “white lists” of allowed applications, while many foreign services remain blocked. Internet traffic is monitored using deep packet inspection, and connections are sometimes slowed to restrict access.
The crackdown has also affected crypto-related websites, with some users reporting blocked access on domestic Wi-Fi networks.
How Russia Enforces Online Restrictions
Internet providers in Russia must install equipment managed by Roskomnadzor to monitor and block restricted traffic. The government plans to inspect all network traffic.
Moscow has also introduced a national Domain Name System and is building a database of IMEI numbers to block individual devices. Providers can report users who search for “extremist” content, which can lead to fines. As a result, online access faces increasingly complex barriers.
The crackdown also targets crypto news sites. Tests show network interference blocks access on domestic Wi-Fi, while the same sites work through other connections. At the same time, Russia is easing rules on personal crypto trading, creating a strange mix of censorship and limited freedoms.
Russian Workarounds and VPN Struggles
Despite restrictions, millions of Russians continue using VPNs and alternative tools such as VLESS. Sarkis Darbinyan of RKS Global estimated VPN usage could reach half of the country’s online population.
However, Roskomnadzor has already blocked hundreds of VPN services and removed many from app stores. Some remaining apps no longer receive updates or security patches.
Experts warn that tighter controls may push casual users toward state-approved platforms. Researchers say users may prioritize access over security as restrictions increase.
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