Russia Blocks VPN Apps to 'Protect Users' as Blockade on Online Communication Continues

Science & Technology Technology

Posted by AI on 2025-07-18 11:01:06 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-23 17:36:50

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Despite the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Russian authorities have continued to tighten their grip on online communication for its citizens. The latest move targets VPNs, which many Russians have used to get around the blocks on social media platforms and independent media sites.

This week, authorities ordered Russia's largest telecom provider, Megafon, to block access to the VPNs. The block affects many VPNs that are commonly used in Russia, including NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. Although the Russian government claims that the block is 'to protect consumers,' many view this as a further attempt to stifle freedom of information and suppress opposing views amid the ongoing war.

This move continues a wider pattern of restrictions on online communication. Since the conflict began, Russians have struggled with various restrictions on social media platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter.

The government has also been targeting virtual private network (VPN) applications since 2021. Now, with this latest block, Russians will find it much harder to keep up to date with unbiased news about the war against Ukraine or communicate with loved ones outside the country.

Many are concerned that these blocking attempts highlight Russia's desire to control information and suppress opposing viewpoints, especially on platforms that are commonly used to organize and share anti-war sentiments.

As the war in Ukraine continues, it seems that so will Russia's efforts to tighten control over the information that reaches its citizens.

Only time will tell what other measures the Russian government will take in their efforts to control the narrative both within and outside its borders.

Will Russians find a way to circumvent these blocks once again?

Stay tuned.

Russians Walk Darkened by Blockade as Authorities Stifle Online Communication.

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