Foreign SIM cards no longer help users in Russia bypass internet restrictions, the Ministry of Digital Development said (source). The new rule applies when connecting to Russian networks in roaming, subjecting foreign numbers to the same filtering as domestic ones. Officials say the change is needed to meet digital security requirements. The decision aims to close a loophole that allowed foreigners to access unfiltered internet.
This means that travelers with foreign SIM cards will experience the same content filters that Russian subscribers face, limiting access to sites blocked by the state. The policy levels the playing field, ensuring that all traffic through Russian operators is monitored. For Russian users, the impact is minimal, as they already lived under these restrictions. The move also reflects broader efforts to tighten control over cross‑border digital services.
According to experts, the regulation strengthens the government’s ability to enforce cybersecurity laws and prevents circumvention through roaming. It aligns with recent legislation that expands the definition of prohibited content and makes filtering more uniform.
Online discussions show mixed feelings, with some users concerned about losing unrestricted access, while others support tighter security. The change is seen as part of a larger trend toward digital isolation and state oversight.
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