On July 22, 2025, Russian lawmakers approved a significant piece of legislation that criminalizes the act of searching for extremist content online. This landmark decision marks a shift in the legal landscape, as it holds internet users accountable for consuming materials deemed “extremist” rather than just distributing them. The new law targets individuals who knowingly search for content listed on the Russian extremist register, which is maintained by the Ministry of Justice and currently contains over 5,400 entries. This move is widely viewed as a further crackdown on dissent, intensifying the government’s grip on online discourse.
The term “extremism” in Russia is highly subjective, allowing authorities to interpret the definition broadly. This loose definition enables the government to suppress various groups, including political dissidents and minorities, while limiting freedom of expression and assembly. A notable example occurred in 2023 when the government classified a widely recognized international LGBT movement as “extremist,” thereby facilitating the harassment of individuals associated with the LGBTQ+ community. As a result, individuals searching for services or discussions related to such content now face fines ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles (approximately €30 to €50), underscoring the chilling effect this legislation could have on free speech.
In addition to individual sanctions, the law imposes heavy penalties on those advertising VPN services, with fines ranging from 50,000 to 500,000 rubles. VPN providers themselves are also liable if they enable access to websites that the government has blocked. These provisions demonstrate the Kremlin’s serious efforts to limit internet privacy strategies. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies are now empowered to request users’ browsing data from various entities, including search engines and telecommunications providers, raising pressing concerns about digital privacy and state surveillance.
In response to the vote, a small group of demonstrators gathered outside the Duma building in Moscow to voice their opposition, brandishing signs that called for a “Russia without censorship.” Several protesters were arrested, including journalists from independent media outlets, highlighting the risks involved in speaking out against government initiatives. The outcry reflects the increased societal tension surrounding digital rights, as citizens grapple with the implications of the new law on their daily lives.
As the law progresses through the legislative process, it will move to the Federation Council before being sent to President Vladimir Putin for final approval. This rapid advancement comes amid heightened governmental scrutiny of foreign technology and software, as Putin has previously instructed officials to impose even stricter regulations on services from “unfriendly countries.” The potential banning of popular messaging applications like WhatsApp illustrates the broader context of increasing internet restrictions in Russia, especially following the country’s military actions in Ukraine.
Overall, these developments showcase the Russian government’s ongoing commitment to control the digital landscape. By targeting users directly and imposing heavy penalties for seeking out extremist content, the legislation significantly compromises online freedoms. The ramifications extend beyond the immediate penalties, as they create a culture of fear and self-censorship that discourages open dialogue and dissent. As citizens increasingly turn to alternative methods to evade these restrictions, the resistance to state-controlled narratives continues to underscore the complex dynamics of freedom of expression in the digital age.
