russia Escalates Restrictions on Foreign Tech Platforms, Blocking Roblox and Limiting FaceTime
Russia is intensifying its control over the digital landscape, recently blocking access to the popular children’s gaming platform Roblox and reportedly restricting the functionality of Apple’s FaceTime. These actions are part of a broader trend of limiting access to Western tech platforms deemed to be in violation of Russian laws.
Roskomnadzor, Russia’s communications regulator, blocked Roblox on Wednesday, citing the distribution of “extremist materials” and “LGBT propaganda.” The regulator also stated the platform contained “inappropriate content that can negatively impact the spiritual and moral development of children.” Roblox maintains it respects local laws and has robust safety measures in place to prevent harmful content,averaging 151.5 million daily active users in the third quarter of this year. The platform has faced similar bans in countries like Iraq and Turkey due to concerns about child exploitation.
Concurrently, reports emerged of disruptions to Apple’s FaceTime service within Russia. Users attempting to use FaceTime on Thursday encountered messages indicating “User unavailable,” with some reporting incoming calls failing to connect. Apple has not yet publicly commented on the reported blocking of the app, which allows free video and audio calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data.
These actions follow a pattern of increased scrutiny and restrictions on Western messaging and communication platforms.In August, Russia began limiting some calls on whatsapp and Telegram, alleging they refused to cooperate with law enforcement regarding fraud and terrorism investigations. Roskomnadzor has even threatened a complete block of WhatsApp.
The crackdown extends beyond communication apps. Last year, Duolingo removed references to ”non-conventional sexual relations” after receiving warnings from roskomnadzor regarding 2SLGBTQ+ content.
Russia designated the “international LGBT movement” as extremist in 2023, enabling potential criminal charges against individuals and advocates supporting LGBTQ+ rights. These recent actions underscore russia’s growing efforts to exert control over data and limit access to platforms perceived as challenging its laws and values.
