Russia is significantly expanding state control over its telecommunications infrastructure, granting the Federal Security Service (FSB) the authority to order internet and mobile service shutdowns. The State Duma passed amendments to the country’s communications law on , requiring providers to comply with FSB requests to suspend services. This move, critics say, represents a further erosion of internet freedom and a step towards greater control over the flow of information within Russia.
The legislation mandates that telecom operators halt communications at the FSB’s direction, with the specific justifications for such orders determined by presidential decree or government resolution. Notably, language specifying that shutdowns would be used to protect citizens and the state from “security threats” was removed from the final bill, according to reports. This change allows for broader, and potentially less transparent, reasons for service disruptions, with the possibility of President Vladimir Putin directly authorizing nationwide or regional internet shutdowns.
The bill’s passage comes amid ongoing concerns about Ukrainian drone attacks within Russia, which have already led to intermittent disruptions of internet and mobile services in affected regions. However, the scope of the new law extends far beyond addressing immediate security concerns related to military conflict. It encompasses the ability to block not only internet and mobile data, but also regular phone calls, text messages, and even postal services, as stated by Russia’s Deputy Communications Minister Igor Lebedev.
A key aspect of the legislation is the shifting of responsibility away from telecom providers. The amended law reportedly shields mobile operators from liability if customers complain about service interruptions resulting from FSB-ordered shutdowns. This effectively removes a potential legal check on the FSB’s power and incentivizes compliance. Here’s particularly relevant given previous instances where mobile service has been disrupted in areas near airports during perceived drone threats.
The legislation’s path to enactment has been swift. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) raised concerns about the bill as early as , calling on Russia to drop the proposed legislation, which it described as an attempt to “legalize nationwide internet shutdowns.” The bill advanced through the State Duma with 393 lawmakers voting in favor, with only 13 dissenting votes. It now awaits President Putin’s signature, which is widely expected to be a formality, and will then take effect ten days after official publication.
This expansion of the FSB’s authority builds upon a pattern of increasing control over the internet within Russia. Under Putin, who previously served as the head of the FSB, the agency’s powers have been significantly broadened. The FSB is already known for its extensive surveillance of online activity, particularly monitoring social media for dissent and criticism of the government. Thousands of websites are currently blocked within Russia.
The vagueness surrounding the criteria for invoking these shutdown powers is a significant concern. Lebedev, the Deputy Communications Minister, previously stated that some of the bill’s language was deliberately kept ambiguous to “confuse enemies.” This lack of clarity raises the potential for arbitrary and politically motivated disruptions of communication services.
The implications of this law extend beyond individual internet users. Businesses reliant on online services, critical infrastructure, and emergency services could all be affected by widespread shutdowns. The ability to disrupt postal services adds another layer of control, potentially impacting supply chains and the delivery of essential goods.
The new law also raises questions about Russia’s ability to maintain a functioning digital economy. While the government has invested in developing a “sovereign internet” infrastructure designed to operate independently of the global internet, the effectiveness of this system remains uncertain. Complete shutdowns, even if temporary, could significantly disrupt economic activity and hinder innovation.
The passage of this legislation underscores the growing trend of governments seeking greater control over the internet within their borders. While authorities often justify such measures as necessary for national security, critics argue that they represent a threat to fundamental freedoms and democratic values. Russia’s move is likely to be closely watched by other countries grappling with similar issues, and could potentially embolden further restrictions on internet access globally.
The FSB’s shutdown orders are reportedly based on a secret decree signed by President Putin in August, according to independent journalist Farida Rustamova. This lack of transparency further exacerbates concerns about the potential for abuse of power and the erosion of due process.
