Russia intensifies its campaign against digital privacy tools

In a concerning development for internet freedom advocates, Russian authorities have expanded their efforts to restrict access to online privacy applications. Recent actions have seen smaller Virtual Private Network (VPN) providers targeted for removal from mobile application marketplaces.

Over a two-day period in mid-May 2025, major smartphone manufacturers Samsung and Xiaomi complied with demands from Roskomnadzor, Russia's communications regulator, by removing AdGuard VPN from their official app stores. The purge didn't stop there, as HideMyName VPN disappeared from Huawei's application marketplace in both Russian and Chinese territories, according to information verified by digital rights organization VPN Guild.

This systematic removal of privacy tools represents a significant intensification of Russia's ongoing campaign against technologies that enable citizens to bypass government surveillance and access blocked content. Alexey Kozliuk, who chairs VPN Guild, described these actions as a "clear escalation" in the authorities' efforts to control digital privacy resources.

The latest removals follow earlier actions against major VPN services through platforms operated by tech giants Apple and Google, suggesting a comprehensive strategy to eliminate privacy tools from officially sanctioned distribution channels within the Russian market.

Russia Intensifies Digital Privacy Crackdown: VPN Services Under Threat

In a concerning development for digital freedom advocates, Russian authorities have ramped up efforts to restrict citizens' access to privacy tools, particularly Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

VPNs have become essential tools for Russians seeking unrestricted internet access, allowing them to circumvent government-imposed geographic restrictions and protect their online activities from surveillance through encryption technology.

The government's campaign against these privacy tools has evolved systematically over recent years. A significant escalation occurred when HideMyName took unprecedented legal action against Roskomnadzor, Russia's censorship regulatory body, in October 2023. By January 2024, authorities had designated the VPN provider as a "foreign agent" - a classification often used to stigmatize and restrict organizations.

March 2024 marked a critical turning point with the introduction of legislation criminalizing the distribution of information about circumventing internet restrictions. This law appears to provide the legal framework for the subsequent removal demands issued to technology companies.

The impact has been particularly visible on Apple's platforms, where approximately 100 VPN applications have disappeared from Russia's App Store since July 2024. Among the affected services are AdGuard VPN, Amnezia VPN, and numerous industry-leading providers.

While Google has shown some resistance to these demands, data indicates that over 50 VPN applications are no longer accessible through the Google Play Store in Russia. The government has now expanded its focus to include smaller application marketplace providers as well.

Digital rights experts characterize these actions not as isolated incidents but as components of a comprehensive strategy to control information access and monitor internet usage throughout Russia.

Russia Intensifies Digital Crackdown: Privacy Tools Under Threat

In a concerning development for digital rights advocates, Russia has significantly ramped up efforts to restrict access to online privacy tools, particularly VPNs.

"The systematic targeting of privacy applications represents a clear escalation in Russia's approach to internet control," experts warn. This coordinated campaign spans multiple platforms, creating substantial barriers for citizens attempting to circumvent state-imposed restrictions.

Benjamin Ismail, who leads campaign and advocacy efforts at GreatFire, reports documenting an alarming surge in VPN application removals across major digital marketplaces. While Apple and Google app stores have been primary targets, smaller platforms haven't escaped scrutiny.

"We've observed Roskomnadzor expanding its reach to previously untouched distribution channels," Ismail notes. "Even alternative platforms like F-Droid and Samsung's Galaxy Store are now facing regulatory pressure."

Digital rights specialists suggest smaller tech providers face particular vulnerability in this environment. "These companies often lack the resources to withstand government demands, especially when threatened with complete market exclusion," one analyst explained.

The situation highlights growing concerns about tech companies' role in facilitating censorship. "We're witnessing global platforms increasingly enforcing local restrictions, whether due to direct pressure or anticipatory compliance," notes a digital rights advocate.

Industry experts emphasize the need for greater user autonomy in this restrictive landscape. "Reducing dependence on centralized platforms and app ecosystems becomes crucial when facing systematic censorship," according to Alexey Kozliuk, who chairs the VPN Guild.

As political tensions escalate, particularly around significant civic events, observers expect further intensification of these restrictive measures. Despite these challenges, privacy tools remain essential for maintaining open information access in increasingly restricted digital environments.

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