• Russia’s communications regulator has blocked instant messaging platform Discord for violating Russian law
• Discord is the latest foreign technology platform to be restricted in Russia
• Russia has ordered foreign technology platforms to remove content it deems illegal, issuing fines for non-compliance
Russia has blocked the popular instant messaging platform Discord, according to a report by the state-run TASS news agency on Tuesday. The move makes Discord the latest foreign tech company to be restricted in Russia amid the country’s crackdown on online speech.
Discord Blocked for Violating Russian Law
Russia’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, ordered the block on Discord for allegedly violating Russian law. Discord did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Over the past few years, Russia has regularly fined foreign tech platforms for failing to remove content it deems illegal. Last week, Roskomnadzor ordered Discord to delete almost 1,000 items it considered unlawful.
Russia Previously Banned Other Major Platforms
In February 2022, soon after Russia invaded Ukraine, Moscow blocked access to major social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
The bans are part of Russia’s wider efforts to control online information flows and silence opposition voices. However, many Russians continue accessing restricted platforms using VPNs.
Discord Grew Popular in Russia Before Ban
Before the ban, Discord had grown popular in Russia, with many using it to discuss sensitive political topics. The free voice, video and text chat app had over 140 million monthly active users globally as of 2021.
Russia has fined Discord in the past for not deleting posts about unauthorized protests in support of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
Experts Say Russian Authorities Want More Control
Experts say Russian authorities aim to drive users towards domestic social media platforms like VK that are more compliant with state censorship demands.
However, tech-savvy Russians are still finding ways around the blocks. There are concerns bans will ramp up self-censorship while isolating Russians from facts.
Conclusion
Discord is the latest tech casualty in Russia as the Kremlin moves to tighten control of the internet. However, the effectiveness of blocking major platforms remains uncertain as users find workaround solutions. The fight for online freedom goes on.
