Ban on Means of Bypassing Internet Blocks Enforced in Russia
On March 1, 2024, Russia implemented a ban on promoting tools to bypass Internet blocks. This ban prohibits access to content that advertises or popularizes methods for bypassing locks, as enforced by Roskomnadzor.
Previously, the Russian government granted Roskomnadzor the authority to block websites containing information on methods to bypass locks. This move was made in response to the Cabinet of Ministers’ resolution, which allows services to be included in the Unified Register of Prohibited Information if they offer ways to access restricted content in Russia.
In September, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media (Minzifra) proposed expanding Roskomnadzor’s powers. The goal was to improve the application of measures limiting access to information that violates Russian laws.
Roskomnadzor later outlined criteria for determining which sites would be blocked, including those with information on bypassing Russian locks, stimulating users to bypass restrictions, or providing access through specialized programs. However, scientific and technical information on accessing restricted resources was exempt from the ban.
This ban will remain in effect until September 1, 2029.