Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development is preparing a reform of the internet services market that could force up to 30% of providers in the country to cease operations. The new rules provide for only three types of licenses, significant requirements regarding companies’ own funds, and mandatory connection to the security services’ surveillance system. The Center for Countering Disinformation reports this, according to UNN.
Details
Russia is taking another step toward centralizing the internet, clearing independent operators from the market. Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development is preparing a reform that could force up to 30% of internet providers in the country to shut down. The authorities want to introduce strict requirements: only three types of licenses are предусмотрены, while companies will be required to have tens of millions of rubles in their own funds and mandatory connection to the security services’ surveillance system. A significant share of regional operators do not meet these criteria
As a result, according to the Center for Countering Disinformation, if a license is revoked or a small provider shuts down, its networks and customer base will be automatically redistributed, while small operators will be required to sign agreements granting major federal players the priority right to buy out their assets.
This “reform” will effectively concentrate the entire market in the hands of several loyal monopolists. Since a centralized internet system is easier to control, Russian security services will be able to censor content much more quickly, block “undesirable” resources, and carry out total surveillance of users
To remind you
Large-scale internet disruptions were recorded in Russia, with the largest number of complaints coming from Moscow and the Moscow region. The incident occurred amid a blackout caused by a bang at a substation.