russia will punish searching for “wrong” materials on the internet
On July 17, russia’s state duma passed an amendment that introduces penalties for intentionally searching online for materials deemed “extremist,” even if accessed through a VPN.
▫️ The amendment was hidden inside a draft law on transport and logistics activities, allowing it to pass without public discussion.
▫️ This new mechanism enables authorities to punish not only the dissemination of information but even mere interest in content that does not align with the government’s stance — including attempts to search for it. It is part of a broader “digital autocracy” strategy aimed at isolating the population from independent sources and turning any search for alternative viewpoints into an administrative offense.
These moves align with other kremlin initiatives, such as proposed regulations for mass mobile internet shutdowns without court orders, further deepening russia’s information blockade and restrictions on free speech.
