Two phones and an app: How Russians skirt Putin's digital iron curtain (opens original article in a new tab)

Russians are using multiple phones and VPNs to circumvent government internet restrictions, as state-imposed controls on foreign apps and websites have intensified.

• Russian citizens use multiple devices and VPNs to bypass internet restrictions imposed by the government.
• The Kremlin's internet controls have led to increased use of virtual private networks, with 9.2 million downloads in March 2023 alone.
• State-backed apps like MAX are promoted for 'digital sovereignty,' but users remain wary of potential surveillance.