Russia’s Escalating Internet Controls: A Digital Isolation

Moscow is experiencing increasingly frequent and disruptive internet blackouts, sparking fears of widespread censorship and a return to pre-digital communication methods. These disruptions, coupled with new legislation granting the government greater control over internet access, are raising concerns about Russia’s trajectory toward digital isolation, potentially mirroring the conditions in North Korea.

Mobile Internet Disruptions and the Rise of Analog Alternatives

For several days in March 2026, Moscow residents experienced widespread problems with mobile internet, calls, and text messages across all major carriers, even impacting Wi-Fi access within the State Duma. This has led to a surge in demand for older technologies. Reports indicate a 27% increase in walkie-talkie sales, a 73% jump in pager sales, and a remarkable 170% increase in road atlas purchases, as citizens seek alternatives to digital communication and navigation. Source

New Laws and Expanding Censorship

President Vladimir Putin recently signed a law empowering the Federal Security Service (FSB) to demand that telecommunications operators block mobile and fixed internet access. This legislation, which came into effect on March 3, 2026, has been followed by increased restrictions on popular online platforms. Kremlin policymakers have already blocked or limited access to WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, FaceTime, Snapchat, and X. Encrypted messaging apps Signal and Discord, as well as Viber, have been inaccessible since 2024. Source

Telegram Under Threat and the “Whitelist” System

Authorities are intensifying their campaign against Telegram, one of Russia’s most popular messaging platforms, potentially leading to a complete shutdown. This move comes as Russia implements a “whitelist” system, restricting access to a limited number of government-approved websites during internet outages. These approved sites include government portals, state media, and domestically developed applications like Max, a government-controlled messaging platform. Source

Government Surveillance and Educational Requirements

Concerns are growing over government surveillance. Students at the Moscow City Pedagogical University (MPGU) have been informed they will not receive their diplomas without installing the government’s new “MAX” spyware application. Source

Echoes of Iran and a Potential “North Korea” Scenario

Russia appears to be adopting internet control tactics previously used by Iran, where a parallel network with restricted access was activated during protests in January 2026. Analysts suggest that the current disruptions are a test of a nationwide system designed to limit information and hamper connectivity during times of turmoil. According to Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia-Eurasia Center, this increasing digital isolation could transform Russia into “a large, nuclear-armed North Korea, and a junior partner of China.” Source

A “Guerrilla War” for Internet Freedom

Mikhail Klimarev, executive director of the Society for the Protection of the Internet, describes the situation as a “guerrilla war,” with authorities blocking VPNs and users constantly seeking new ways to circumvent censorship. Source

Key Takeaways

• Russia is implementing increasingly strict internet controls, mirroring tactics used in Iran and North Korea.
• New legislation grants the government broad powers to block internet access.
• Popular social media platforms and messaging apps are facing restrictions or outright bans.
• The government is promoting a domestically controlled messaging app, Max, raising surveillance concerns.
• These actions are leading to digital isolation and a potential shift in Russia’s geopolitical alignment.