Russian Tech Official Shadaev Criticizes VPN Penalty Proposal

© Правительство РФ

The Russian Ministry of Digital Development opposes the introduction of administrative penalties for using VPN services, according to Minister Maxut Shadaev, as reported by RIA Novosti.

"The issue of introducing administrative liability for using VPNs was discussed. This is a direct solution that we categorically dislike. The measures being discussed today are a complex compromise. Of course, we understand all the consequences, but all other options are much worse," Shadaev said.

He emphasized that the Russian authorities aim to reduce the volume of VPN usage in the country, a task assigned to the ministry, but the Ministry of Digital Development wants to achieve this "with minimal consequences and burdens for users."