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How the Kremlin's internet crackdown is frustrating Russians

Officials say the restrictions are for public safety, but businesses and the public are feeling the impact.

Published April 24, 2026, 3:19 PM
Updated May 11, 2026, 9:05 AM979
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How the Kremlin's internet crackdown is frustrating Russians

Russian authorities have been tightening control of the country's cyber space, blocking access to global messaging apps, such as WhatsApp and Telegram, and even restricting mobile internet in some areas.

Russians told the BBC that the crackdown on the internet is affecting businesses, but also cutting them off the outside world.

"We are losing money every time there is a blockage of internet," said Yulia, who owns a catering company.

Russian officials insist that curbs on communication are in the interests of public safety, claiming that mobile internet blackouts disorient Ukrainian attack drones.

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