Russian authorities have increased their efforts to limit the use of virtual private networks (VPNs). These services allow users to bypass government internet controls. The crackdown comes even as more people in Russia depend on VPNs for daily internet access.

Hundreds of VPN Services Blocked

According to a report by The Moscow Times, regulators have blocked hundreds of VPN services. They have also banned advertisements for these services and pressured app stores to remove them. The government has taken additional steps by restricting payment options for foreign platforms. This makes it harder for users to access VPN services.

Part of Wider Internet Control Strategy

These actions are part of Russia’s broader internet control system. Authorities have shut down mobile internet in several regions during sensitive periods. They have also used a state-approved “white list” of websites. During disruptions, users can only access these approved sites.

Full Ban Still Unlikely

Despite strict measures, officials have not completely banned VPNs. Reports suggest that enforcing a full ban would be difficult. Such a move could damage Russia’s economy and disrupt its technological systems.

Restrictions Cause Unexpected Problems

The crackdown has started to create new issues. A report by Reuters said that VPN-blocking attempts affected Russia’s payment systems. Pavel Durov highlighted these problems. He said the disruptions forced some services to switch to manual operations.

In some cases, metro systems allowed passengers to travel without paying. Businesses also asked customers to use cash when digital payments stopped working. “Their blocking attempts just triggered a massive banking failure,” Durov said on Telegram. “Welcome back to the Digital Resistance, my Russian brothers and sisters. The entire nation is now mobilised to bypass these absurd restrictions.”

Telegram Faces Growing Pressure

The move against VPNs is closely linked to efforts to control Telegram. Telegram is widely used in Russia. It is more than just a messaging app. People use it for news, official communication, business, and activism. It also plays a role in military coordination linked to the Ukraine war.

Media outlets, government agencies, and bloggers run large channels on Telegram. Opposition leaders also use it to reach the public. Because of its importance, replacing Telegram is difficult. Any disruption to the platform can have wide effects.

VPN Use Continues to Rise

Despite the crackdown, VPN use in Russia keeps growing. Since 2022, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X have been blocked. This has pushed millions of people to rely on VPNs.

Many users depend on VPNs to access news, social media, and business tools. Estimates show that tens of millions of Russians use VPNs. Surveys suggest that nearly half the population has tried one at least once. For many people, VPNs are no longer occasional tools. They are now used all the time.

Experts Doubt Complete Shutdown

The government continues to tighten control using technical, financial, and legal methods. However, experts believe a total shutdown of VPN access is unlikely. It would be too difficult to enforce and could harm the country’s digital and economic systems.