Russia's FSB set to gain power to fully cut internet and phone networks
Illustrative photo: Russia is introducing unprecedented control over the Internet (GettyImages)
Russia is preparing to grant the Federal Security Service (FSB) sweeping powers over communications networks, including the ability to shut down internet and phone services.
This was reported by the UK Ministry of Defence on X.
FSB could be allowed to order mass communication blackouts
According to British intelligence, on January 27, 2026, Russia's State Duma approved government-backed amendments that would allow the FSB to disconnect mobile and fixed-line internet, telephone services, and other communication tools in response to "security threats."
The bill would require telecom operators to immediately suspend services upon receiving an official order and would shield them from financial liability for any resulting disruptions.
Unprecedented control over the information space
UK intelligence notes that due to the broad definition of "communication services," the amendments would effectively give the FSB unprecedented influence over the entire data transmission sphere — including voice, text, images, and internet traffic.
The move aligns with Russia's broader trend of tightening state control over the information space, a process that has intensified since the start of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Russia exporting censorship technologies
The review also states that Russia is not only strengthening domestic controls but is actively involved in exporting censorship technologies abroad.
"Investigations by private media autlets show Russia helped Iran build one of the most advanced internet-control systems ever deployed, centered on deep packet inspection capable of throttling apps, blocking VPNs, and tracking protest organizers in real time," the report says.
Russia's expanding digital control
Russian occupation authorities restricted the operation of two popular messaging apps — Telegram and WhatsApp — in temporarily occupied Crimea. Users have reportedly been pressured to install the Russian messaging app Max instead.
The largest occupation telecom provider, Volna, said it was acting in accordance with an order from Roskomnadzor, which, according to the company, applies to subscribers of all operators and providers within the so-called "territory of Russia."
In addition, Russia is planning to introduce a digital registry of children: parents may be required to notify telecom operators if a SIM card is handed over to a child. The information would be entered into a state monitoring system, allowing authorities to identify underage users.
Online platforms, including social networks and media outlets, would be required to verify whether a phone number belongs to a child and, if confirmed, restrict access to certain categories of content.
