The Russian government is launching a new move to increase its control over the internet and block the use of VPNs. According to the latest media reports, Russia’s information technology agency Roskomnadzor will invest around $650 million in the “Cybersecurity Infrastructure” project over the next five years.
Russia tightens internet infrastructure for cybersecurity
The aim of the project in Russia is to strengthen the country’s internet filtering system. Accordingly, the government wants to restrict access to blocked content, including VPN services, by 96 percent.
VPN apps are widely used in Russia to access banned websites. These services, which hide users’ real IP addresses, make it possible to access platforms such as Facebook and YouTube.
However, Russian authorities argue that VPN services undermine the Cybersecurity Infrastructure project and pose a national security threat. In recent years, Roskomnadzor has taken various measures to block popular VPN apps and websites.
The new $650 million funding will further advance blocking efforts. Models such as China’s blacklist-based filtering system could replace current technology. If this investment is successful, the Russian government could drastically limit VPN use in the country.
Cybersecurity experts, however, expect conflict between VPN providers and the government. Accordingly, new anti-censorship tools are expected to emerge. Let’s see how the security in Russia will evolve by 2030.
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