Russia’s Digital Iron Curtain Grows Thicker

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law that penalizes individuals for searching online content deemed “extremist” by the state.

Under the new law, the term “extremist” is so broadly defined it now includes not just terrorist groups, but also political opposition movements and even the international LGBT community.

The legislation also outlaws promoting or facilitating the use of VPNs, essential tools for millions of Russians to access uncensored information.

This crackdown threatens to cut citizens off from independent media and international platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Google.

Putin Passes New Law That Even His Own Circle Is Alarmed About

In a rare display of internal resistance, about 60 members of parliament voiced opposition to the law.