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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World
Pjotr Sauer

Unexplained Moscow internet blackouts spark fears of web censorship plan

People with umbrellas walk through Red Square under rain in Moscow
Red Square, Moscow, in 2024. Russian officials have previously claimed internet shutdowns were an effort to thwart Ukrainian drone attacks. Photograph: Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP

Muscovites have been turning to walkie-talkies and pagers amid unexplained disruptions to internet services in the capital, as the Kremlin appears to ramp up control over online activity in Russia.

Users in central Moscow, as well as in St Petersburg, first reported difficulties accessing mobile internet about a week ago. Many said they were unable to load websites or apps, while some lost service altogether, leaving them unable to make phone calls.

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