Russia Tightens Grip on Internet: Speedtest Blocked

Russia's internet regulator Roskomnadzor has blocked Speedtest, an internet performance tool by U.S. Company Ookla, citing threats to national internet security. This move aligns with Russia's focus on digital sovereignty, amidst ongoing pressure on foreign tech companies and increased censorship measures.

Russia's communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, has taken action to block the internet performance tool, Speedtest, a service provided by the U.S.-based company Ookla. This decision is purportedly in response to threats to Russia's internet security.

For years, foreign tech giants like Alphabet, Meta, and Apple have been under mounting pressure in Russia regarding their content distribution and data storage practices. Roskomnadzor's restriction on Speedtest aligns with a 2020 decree due to perceived threats to the operational security of Russia's public communication networks and its segment of the internet.

This move comes amid a broader push by Russia to establish digital sovereignty by fostering domestic services, a priority that has intensified since the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Russia's government is enhancing control over internet infrastructure, leading to increased censorship and protectionist regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)