kremlin continues to build system of total digital control
The russian authorities plan to create a unified database of IMEI codes for mobile devices, which will allow them to track and control the use of mobile devices.
According to the draft resolution, telecom operators will be obliged to transfer information about each SIM card activation and change of a subscriber’s mobile device to a centralized database. Based on this data, the authorities will be able to block the use of communication services.
Formally, the innovations are explained as a supposed fight against cyberfraud, crime, and terrorism. At the same time, the creation of a unified IMEI database significantly expands russia’s capabilities for monitoring mobile devices and strengthens control over citizens’ digital activity.
This decision continues the kremlin’s course towards establishing full control over the information space. Earlier, russia had already tightened internet censorship, implemented large-scale blocking of online services, and expanded mechanisms of digital surveillance.
Under the pretext of “security”, the russian authorities are gradually building a system that will allow for total surveillance of users and, under the guise of the fight against “terrorism and extremism”, punish any manifestations of disloyalty.
