[53275] Severe Internet restrictions in Moscow ahead of May 9th events

Moscow prepares for communication shutdown on Victory Day

The Russian Ministry of Communications (Минцифры) has confirmed that on May 9, significant restrictions will be imposed on communications in Moscow, including a complete block of mobile internet, SMS services, and even access to websites from approved "white lists." According to the ministry, the measure is being taken "to ensure the security of the Victory Day events." State media outlets such as TASS emphasized that as of now, similar restrictions are not planned for May 7 and 8, though it was noted that "operational" blocks may occur in the event of immediate security threats.

Conversely, opposition media and independent sources are expressing great skepticism and are calling on the public to prepare for a total blackout. NEXTA Live, known for its sharply critical stance toward the Russian government, advised residents to "stock up on cash, buy SIM cards from different operators, and download offline maps." The Insider noted that official bodies are trying to downplay the severity of the measures by highlighting the fact that home internet and Wi-Fi are expected to remain active.

At the same time, reports from Новая газета Европа indicate that the trend is not limited to Moscow alone, but is planned in more than 20 regions in Russia. The issue of bypassing blocks has moved to the top of the agenda following the publication of data on a sharp rise in VPN usage in the country. According to ⚡️INVESTBLOG⚡️, about 74% of the population are aware of circumvention methods, and the share of users of paid VPN services has jumped from 15% in 2024 to 48% today.

Despite the authorities' attempts to control information, it was reported in Zone AP that Roskomnadzor is planning an investment of billions of rubles in the development of Runet control systems (TSPU) with the goal of blocking 92% of VPN services by 2030, a move intended to tighten control over digital information in the country.