Russia steps up VPN blocking after parliamentary elections. Ten services report tighter restrictions in a single week.

Source: Verstka

After the State Duma elections, Russian authorities launched a new round of blocking VPN services. Ten services said they faced tighter restrictions over the past week, Verstka reported. The outlet did not name them, citing “security reasons.”

One of the largest and best-known VPN services told users in a September 25 email that “blocking had intensified since the start of the week.” The service said restrictions peaked that day, disrupting VPN access for many users.

Another service said the latest restrictions began on September 21. Its team had to replace eight servers in five days. Two other services said Roskomnadzor had blocked all their server locations abroad and the IP addresses of all their servers.

Alexey Kozlyuk, chairman of the VPN Guild, called the increased blocking an expected outcome of the elections. The organization does not consider it a “fundamentally new wave.” He said some services had seen no increase in pressure from the authorities.

“From what we’ve seen, the pressure began to mount back in early August. We see what’s happening now as a continuation and gradual intensification of that campaign,” Kozlyuk said.

Demand for VPNs in Russia has surged amid the blocking of popular social media platforms, services, and messaging apps. Russian authorities have responded by stepping up efforts to prevent people from bypassing the blocks.

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Russia steps up VPN blocking after parliamentary elections. Ten services report tighter restrictions in a single week.

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Russia steps up VPN blocking after parliamentary elections. Ten services report tighter restrictions in a single week.

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