Published on: 2025-04-08

Intelligence Report: Russia demands 212 VPNs are removed from the Play Store but Google is resisting – TechRadar

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

Russia has demanded the removal of 212 VPN applications from the Google Play Store, but Google has resisted these requests. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between Russian authorities and tech companies over internet censorship and user privacy. The resistance by Google is significant as it underscores the company’s stance on maintaining access to privacy tools despite governmental pressure.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

Russia’s demand for VPN removal is part of a broader strategy to control internet access and limit tools that enable users to bypass censorship. The order was issued by Roskomnadzor, targeting popular VPN services such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost. Despite these demands, Google has largely resisted, maintaining the availability of some VPNs, including ProtonVPN and Mullvad. The inconsistency in VPN removals suggests a complex interplay of legal, political, and corporate factors influencing app availability.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The demand for VPN removal poses significant risks to digital rights and privacy, potentially setting a precedent for further censorship efforts. It could impact regional stability by restricting information flow and limiting citizens’ access to global content. Economically, this could affect tech companies operating in Russia, leading to market withdrawal or compliance with restrictive policies.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Encourage dialogue between tech companies and international bodies to address censorship concerns and promote internet freedom.
• Develop regulatory frameworks that protect digital rights while considering national security interests.
• Invest in technological solutions that enhance user privacy and circumvent censorship.

Outlook:

In a best-case scenario, continued resistance by tech companies could lead to negotiations that balance government concerns with user privacy. In a worst-case scenario, increased censorship could result in further restrictions and market exits by tech companies. The most likely outcome is a continued stalemate, with periodic compliance by some companies and ongoing resistance by others.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions significant individuals and organizations involved in this issue. Key individuals include Maria Kolomychenko, who discovered the VPN removal order, and Benjamin Ismail, who commented on the situation. The primary organization involved is Roskomnadzor, which issued the blocking order.