YouTube has asked some Russian bloggers to take down videos that explain how to use VPNs to bypass blocks imposed by Roskomnadzor, Russia’s internet regulatory agency. The platform cited compliance with Russian laws as the reason for the request.
According to notices sent by YouTube, the videos were flagged by Roskomnadzor under Part 7 of Article 15.1 of the Law “On Information, Information Technologies, and the Protection of Information.” The videos were added to Russia’s registry of prohibited information. YouTube warned that bloggers who do not comply may face further action, including potential blocking of their content.
Roskomnadzor’s Restrictions
Roskomnadzor confirmed that it had demanded the removal of over 300 videos promoting the use of VPNs or other tools for bypassing blocked content. These videos were accused of popularizing methods to evade restrictions on accessing content deemed illegal in Russia.
The regulatory agency has been increasingly strict about VPN-related content. In March, it began blocking advertisements for VPN services. By April, Roskomnadzor had blocked 82 websites promoting VPN tools. A new regulation effective November 30 prohibits sharing information or statistics about VPNs used for bypassing restrictions.
Ongoing Compliance Issues
YouTube has yet to fully comply with Roskomnadzor’s demands to remove the flagged materials. The platform’s actions, or lack thereof, highlight the tensions between global tech companies and local regulations in restrictive environments.
This development underscores the growing challenges content creators face in navigating platform rules and local laws, especially in regions with strict internet controls.