With a new change in the law, Russia is taking another step in combating so-called "extremist" material on the Internet. Starting Sept. 1, 2025, fines are looming for anyone who intentionally searches for content the state considers banned, including using tools like VPNs to circumvent censorship.
The proposed addition of Article 13.53 to the Administrative Code states that "seeking and accessing known extremist materials, including through hardware and software tools that provide access to blocked information sources" will become punishable. Those guilty of this risk a fine ranging from approximately $38 to $64. A separate provision also imposes fines for advertising VPN services, individuals can pay up to $1,025 for this, organizations as much as $6,400.
Critics warn that for years the definition of "extremist" has been so broad as to include any form of independent reporting or government criticism. For example, the official registry of banned materials now includes more than 5,500 entries, including the "LGBT movement," opposition pages on social media and even "alleged Nazi ideology." What initially seemed to apply to genuine terror groups now includes those who want to read news about the war in Ukraine through unofficial channels.
Amnesty International reacts furiously. "The authorities conceal their relentless persecution of dissenters behind a vague notion of extremism," said Marie Struthers, director of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. She warns that soon even private chat groups could be bombed into extremist organizations, once one member is previously convicted.
Even state-sponsored agencies are showing concern. Yekaterina Mizulina, leader of the League for a Secure Internet, posted on Telegram that her organization will soon be prohibited from transferring data on suspected extremists to the Interior Ministry. "We are forbidden to monitor extremism," said Mizulina, the daughter of an influential Russian senator.
Previous attempts to curtail information handling, such as criminalizing the word "war" instead of "special military operation," failed in part due to public outcry. Whether this law also passes the Duma unchanged remains to be seen. Security services welcome the strengthening of control; independent legal experts and the international community fear a new wave of arbitrary prosecution.
