Google Limits New Account Creation in Russia Amid Tensions

In a significant move that underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and Western tech companies, Google has restricted the creation of new accounts for users in Russia. This decision comes amid increasing pressure from the Russian government, which has been critical of the company for not complying with its demands regarding content moderation. The digital ministry of Russia confirmed this development, stating that telecom operators have observed a notable decrease in the number of SMS messages sent by Google to Russian users.

For several years, Google has faced scrutiny in Russia, particularly after the country’s invasion of Ukraine. The tech giant has been accused of failing to remove content that the Russian government deems illegal. In response to these pressures, Google has taken steps such as blocking YouTube channels associated with Russian media and public figures. This has led to a strained relationship between the company and the Russian authorities.

The Russian digital ministry has also raised concerns about the future of two-factor authentication for Google services, indicating that there is no guarantee that SMS confirmations will continue to function. In light of this uncertainty, the ministry has advised users to create backup copies of their data and consider switching to alternative methods of two-factor authentication or to domestic platforms.

In addition to restricting new account creations, Google has previously deactivated AdSense accounts in Russia and halted the serving of ads to Russian users since March 2022. The company has also paused monetization of content that either exploits or condones the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Furthermore, Google has blocked over 1,000 YouTube channels and removed more than 5.5 million videos, which has significantly impacted the availability of information and entertainment for Russian users.

As a result of these actions, users in Russia have reported slower speeds on Google’s YouTube platform. Russian lawmakers attribute this slowdown to Google’s alleged failure to upgrade its equipment, a claim that the company and various technology experts have disputed. This situation highlights the complex interplay between technology, government regulations, and user access to information.

Google’s decision to restrict new account creations in Russia is a clear indication of the ongoing conflict between the tech giant and the Russian government. As users navigate this changing landscape, it is essential for them to stay informed about their options and consider alternative platforms for their digital needs. The evolving relationship between technology companies and governments will continue to shape the way users access information and services in the future.