The delete account button on the Gosuslugi portal has vanished. Reports circulated through Telegram channels, and a Gazeta.RU correspondent confirmed the issue. On the site, there are no visible buttons, and the mobile application displays an error saying the delete function is not available. Technical support explained that access to a Government Services account now requires a personal appeal rather than a simple online request.
In February, Gosuslugi paused accepting applications for new electronic passports in a form with an electronic information carrier. The guidance stated that if an application was submitted via an MFC, the applicant should follow up with the location where the request was sent for all questions.
Meanwhile, a new legislative proposal emerged in the State Duma. Alexei Nechaev, the head of the New People faction, introduced a bill to enable an annual assessment of the effectiveness of deputies and mayors at all levels. The proposal envisions using the State Services portal to collect feedback from citizens. Nechaev argues that the plan would empower people to evaluate local leaders without extraneous bureaucracy and complications.
Experts note that the disappearance of the delete option raises questions about user account management, data portability, and service continuity on a platform that many Russians rely on for daily government interactions. Users seeking to close an account may need to submit formal requests via the portal support channel or visit a designated service point, depending on their region. The shift away from self-service options highlights the balancing act between security, user experience, and administrative oversight that many large government portals face in a rapidly digitizing environment. Industry observers say this moment underscores the importance of transparent timelines, clear guidance for offline alternatives, and accessible contact points for residents who need to discontinue accounts or update their personal data.
Analysts also point to the broader trend of consolidating government digital services under centralized portals. The Gosuslugi platform has become a critical hub for a wide range of public services, from document issuance to social benefits. The current changes may prompt users to adapt their routines, schedule in-person visits when necessary, and monitor official communications for updates on policy and process adjustments. It remains essential for users to verify any instructions through official channels and to seek confirmation when handling sensitive actions such as account deletions or identity-related requests. The overall aim expressed by government officials is to streamline service delivery while maintaining appropriate safeguards for personal data.