Russia creates its own messenger: state control and censorship increase!

Russia creates its own messenger: state control and censorship increase!

The Russian Parliament, the State Duma, recently passed a law that provides for the creation of a state -controlled messenger. The aim of this step is to ensure safe communication between the citizens and the state and urban authorities. This development comes at a time when Russia has increased its control over the Internet considerably, especially since the beginning of the Ukraine War. The new messenger should offer functions that simplify the everyday life of users by integrating various state services.

The planned messenger enables the age confirmation at supermarket coffers and a hotel check-in without the need to submit paper-based documents. Other functions that are to be integrated into the software are the electronic signature and an ID function, which promises seamless interaction with authorities. In addition, the integration of online training offers is sought, which could facilitate access to state-funded education. The government will determine which developer will create the software, according to media reports, the social network VK is considered a potential provider. However, VK is under the control of state-related corporations, which raises concerns about the independence and security of the platform, such as n-tv.de reports.

Internet course and control

Since the outbreak of the Ukraine War, Russia has drastically tightened censorship on the Internet. Western and independent providers are often blocked or severely restricted, with the official justification aiming at "defamation of the Russian armed forces". The increasing control over online communication is supported by Russian officials who express concerns about the use of international messenger such as WhatsApp, Facebook or Signal. From the government's point of view, these platforms offer potential risks for national security.

In addition to the previously mentioned monitoring measures, media laws in Russia have also become more strict. Rights and freedoms of the citizens, in particular in the distribution of information, have been severely restricted, which forced many opposition media to flee abroad or to completely hire their reporting. The long history of internet history in Russia is illuminated in various analyzes that indicate the continuous measures of the government that aim to suppress critical voices. Further details can be found in the explanations of Computerwoche.de.

With the creation of its own messenger, which is under the influence of the government, Russia not only intends to consolidate control over digital communication, but also to provide the citizens a tool that apparently makes access to government services easier. It remains to be seen whether this leads to a society in which the citizens can draw actual benefits from these offers or whether it is mainly an instrument for surveillance.