Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law introducing administrative liability for deliberately searching the Internet for extremist materials, including using VPNs (virtual private networks).
From 1 September 2025, such searches will be punishable by a fine of 3,000 to 5,000 rubles (about $37-60).
Separate provisions relate to VPNs. Citizens will face a fine of 50 to 80 thousand rubles, officials – from 80 to 150 thousand, legal entities – from 200 to 500 thousand for distributing advertisements of VPN-tools.
The use of VPN in the commission of an offence is now considered an aggravating circumstance.
Minister of Communications Maksut Shadaev explained that ordinary users, who are not specifically looking for banned materials, will not fall under the law. According to him, in each case it will be necessary to prove the existence of intent and realisation that the search content is extremist.
During the spring session, the State Duma adopted new repressive laws that toughen penalties for a number of political articles. One of the most recent decisions was to establish liability for searching for so-called extremist materials on the Internet, which will now be punishable by fines.