Russia Tightens Grip on Internet: New Law Targets 'Extremist' Searches

The Russian parliament swiftly passed a bill penalizing online searches for 'extremist' information with fines. This legislation is part of a broader effort to control the internet, with implications for opposition groups and increased censorship, particularly following the 2022 military actions in Ukraine.

In a move to tighten internet control, Russia's upper house of parliament swiftly passed a bill imposing fines on those seeking 'extremist' information online. The bill awaits President Vladimir Putin's signature.

The broad definition of extremist activity covers opposition factions like Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation and the LGBT movement. Authorities have not clarified how they'll distinguish between deliberate violators and regular internet users.

This development follows a pattern of increased censorship and prosecution in Russia after its 2022 military actions in Ukraine. Many independent news outlets have been shut down or labeled as undesirable, fueling widespread use of VPN services despite government crackdown efforts.