Alexander Khinshtein, who chairs the State Duma committee overseeing information policy, information technologies and communications, argued that a restriction on VPN services in Russia is aimed at safeguarding the personal data of Russian residents. He stressed that this does not amount to an outright ban on VPN usage. His comments appeared in a self written article published on his Telegram channel.
According to Khinshtein, limiting the widespread use of VPNs constitutes a protective measure for the personal data of Russian citizens. He asserted that utilizing such services effectively hands over private information to third parties. The deputy noted clearly that there are no plans to fully prohibit VPN use. He also urged Russians to consider carefully before turning on VPNs on their devices and to make informed choices.
Earlier, Roskomnadzor indicated that methods to bypass blockades are prohibited within the Russian Federation. A new rule, set to take effect from March 1, will ban the distribution of such bypass tools.
Prior to that, Ekaterina Mizulina, president of the Safe Internet League, stated that VPN services may be blocked in Russia beginning March 1, 2024. Her comments reflected ongoing concerns about maintaining national internet safety and control over information access.
In broader discussions, there has been a recurring theme about how many Russian passwords can be compromised quickly, underscoring ongoing anxiety around security and data protection in online environments. This backdrop helps frame the policy choices being debated, including the balance between privacy and state oversight, accessibility, and the resilience of everyday online activities.
As of today, the policy landscape around VPNs in Russia continues to evolve. Government officials have repeatedly framed the issue as one of protecting personal data and national cybersecurity, while critics point to risks to consumer freedom and the open nature of the internet. The practical impact for users ranges from occasional service interruptions to a heightened need for awareness about how data is routed and stored. Industry observers emphasize that any future steps will likely involve a mixture of regulatory measures and enforcement actions aimed at curbing unauthorized or unsafe uses of VPN technology, without eliminating legitimate needs for privacy and secure communication. The conversation also touches on how VPNs might influence commerce, education, and remote work, where regulated access to information and secure connections are often essential.
In the ongoing public discourse, it is clear that the tension between control and privacy will shape policy developments for months to come. Stakeholders, including lawmakers, technology providers, and civil society groups, will continue to assess the implications of VPN regulation for personal data protection, national security, and the practicalities of digital life in Russia and beyond. The situation remains dynamic, with official positions evolving as new security concerns, technological developments, and user needs emerge.
Notes about authority and attribution: statements cited here reflect public remarks by officials and organizations involved in shaping internet policy in Russia. For readers seeking further context, consider examining official statements and policy briefs from Roskomnadzor and the Russian parliament, alongside analyses from independent privacy advocates and technology researchers.