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Zoom to Directly Sell to Russian Gov’t Agencies After Controversy

Earlier reports said that the video-conferencing platform had restricted premium access to Russian state-affiliated entities.

'symmetrical measure'

Russia Warns Could Block Zoom If It Prohibits Government Use

The U.S. platform could be replaced by Russia's Sferum video-conferencing system, officials say.

Zoom Bans Sales to Russian Government, State Firms – Kommersant

Experts linked the ban to risks of U.S. sanctions and difficulties complying with Russian legislation.

Russian 'Anti-Apple' Law Requiring Local Apps Takes Effect

Smartphones, tablets and computers sold in Russia must now come with pre-installed domestic software and apps.

Russian Lawyers Seek State Regulations on Recommendation Engines – Kommersant

The lawyers warned that such technologies can influence public opinion, "increasing the risk of social conflict."

terms and conditions

Russia Says Hopes to Avoid Ban on Western Tech Giants

Russia earlier this month began disrupting Twitter services in Russia as it ramped up pressure on foreign social media platforms.

Russian Police Break Up Weeklong Anti-5G Protests

Anti-5G activists set up tents to prevent works at the construction site, saying the tower is unsafe for locals and illegal.

Mandatory Software

Apple Allows Russia to Pre-Install Domestic Apps on Devices

All users who activate an Apple device purchased in Russia will be prompted to install default apps from a government-approved list.

next generation

Russia’s MTS Launches Pilot 5G Network in Moscow Hotspots

MTS said it opened 14 hotspots across the city’s main tourist attractions and business centers.

internal messenger

Moscow City Hall Develops App to ‘Replace’ Skype, Slack – RBC

The app disappeared from Google Play after RBC sent a request for comment to Moscow’s IT department.

video surveillance

Moscow To Expand Metro Facial Recognition Network

Cameras that recognize faces and track fast movements will be installed across the city's metro system.

Russia to Fine Social Media Giants For Keeping Up Pro-Navalny Videos

Videos broke Russia’s law against inciting minors to attend an unsanctioned demonstration, the state communications regulator said.

Investment House Targets $600M Fund for Russian Tech

Following success with unicorn startup HeadHunter, Elbrus Capital is stepping up its investments in the Russian digital space.

‘RESTORING FUNCTIONALITY’

Parler Partly Online With Russian Tech Firm’s Backing – Reuters

The platform popular with Trump supporters was removed from Google and Apple app stores after the storming of the U.S. Capitol.

knowledge is power

Moscow to Track Residents' Income, Grades, Pets in Digital Database – Kommersant

The so-called “centralized profile management” system is reportedly expected to handle 20 million profiles a year.

Facebook Pays Russia $50K Fine For Not Localizing User Data

The social network has refused to comply with Russia’s controversial requirements to store Russian users’ data on Russia-based servers.

Russia Plans Biometric Database for Citizens, Foreigners – TASS

Law enforcement will be able to identify individuals via face recognition and fingerprints.

TECH-SAVVY TEACHING

‘Geek Teachers’ Innovate Russian Classrooms

A project founded by two young teachers has supported remote learning during the coronavirus pandemic.

Soviet Diehards and Covid-19 Conspiracies: Inside Russia’s Anti-5G Movement

In a country widely viewed as the home of global disinformation, a Western conspiracy theory is flourishing.

clandestine tech

Russian Scientist Accused of Passing Tech Secrets to China – Reports

Alexander Lukanin is the latest Russian academic to be accused or convicted of cooperating with foreign states in recent years.

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