Apple removes popular VPNs from Russia’s App Store following government pressure. This move restricts access to free and open internet for Russian citizens, sparking privacy concerns and raising questions about online freedom. Will other tech companies follow suit?
Apple has removed a significant number of VPN applications from the App Store in Russia, complying with a request from the country’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor. This move comes amidst Russia’s ongoing online crackdown and growing tensions with Western tech companies over content regulation and censorship.
The exact number of VPNs removed remains unclear. Reports suggest the figure could be as high as 25, with popular services like Red Shield VPN, ProtonVPN and Le VPN confirming their removal. Other affected VPN providers have likely chosen to remain silent for fear of further repercussions.
Roskomnadzor has been actively blocking access to various websites and social media platforms since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. VPNs, which encrypt internet traffic and allow users to bypass geographical restrictions, have become crucial tools for Russians seeking access to uncensored information and international news sources.
According to a previous report on Russia’s crackdown on VPNs, it was revealed that in 2022, 23% of the Russian population used VPN services, up from 9% in 2021. Apple’s decision to comply with Roskomnadzor’s demands has drawn sharp criticism from privacy advocates and cybersecurity experts.
In May 2018, Russia blocked over 50 VPN services and anonymizers during its crackdown on the encrypted messenger app Telegram. In February 2020, the country blocked Tuta, formerly Tutanota, an end-to-end encrypted email app and a freemium secure email service.
In March 2023, Russian authorities added several Western messaging apps to its Register of Prohibited Sites, including Snapchat, WhatsApp, Discord, Skype for Business, Microsoft Teams, and Telegram. In addition, European encrypted messaging apps Viber and Threema, as well as the Chinese communication app WeChat, were also banned.
Uncertain Future for VPN Usage in Russia
The removal of these VPNs creates uncertainty for Russian internet users who rely on them for privacy and security. While some may seek alternative app stores or sideloading methods to install VPNs, these options come with increased security risks and technical complexities.
The long-term impact of Apple’s decision remains to be seen. Roskomnadzor may attempt to further restrict access to VPNs by blocking their protocols or employing deeper technical measures. This could lead to a cat-and-mouse game between Russian authorities and VPN providers constantly seeking new ways to circumvent restrictions.
VPNs are vital!
For people in Russia to continue exercising their rights to express, access information + dissent, @Apple must stop aiding Kremlin in suffocating the country’s civic space. https://t.co/9RVRZwmzNm
— Access Now (@accessnow) July 4, 2024
A Global Debate on Online Freedom
Apple’s decision in Russia reignites the global debate on balancing national security concerns with the right to online privacy. While governments may have legitimate reasons to regulate certain online content, the removal of widely used privacy tools sets a dangerous precedent and raises concerns about corporate cooperation with authoritarian regimes.
The coming weeks will be crucial as we observe how Russian citizens adapt to this new reality and how other tech companies operating in Russia respond to similar pressures from the government.
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