MOSCOW, RUSSIA (HRNW) — Human Rights Watch has warned that Russian authorities are intensifying efforts to restrict access to tools that allow people to bypass government internet censorship, raising concerns over freedom of expression, privacy and access to information.
In a September 24 statement, Human Rights Watch said authorities were increasingly targeting virtual private networks (VPNs) and other censorship-circumvention services through blocking measures and the removal of applications from online stores.
The organization said the measures form part of a broader pattern of restrictions affecting internet users inside Russia.
Human Rights Watch said people rely on VPNs and similar technologies to access information and communicate without being subjected to state censorship.
The organization expressed concern that intensified restrictions could affect millions of people seeking access to information outside government-controlled channels.
Human Rights Watch also linked the measures to broader concerns over privacy and freedom of expression.
The organization said restrictions on censorship-circumvention tools can make it more difficult for journalists, activists and ordinary internet users to obtain independent information.
The latest measures come amid continuing efforts by Russian authorities to regulate online platforms, digital communications and access to foreign information sources.
Human Rights Watch called on the Russian government to respect the rights to freedom of expression and access to information and to avoid measures that unnecessarily restrict legitimate internet use.
The organization said international monitoring of Russia’s digital environment remains important as restrictions on online communications continue to expand.
The developments highlight the growing role of digital rights in the protection of freedom of expression and access to information.
Support Appeal
HRNW appeals to readers, civil society organizations, governments and human-rights supporters to strengthen independent human-rights journalism and public awareness through the World’s No.1 dedicated Human Rights News Agency.
Support HRNW – World’s No.1 dedicated Human Rights News Agency
Disclaimer
This article is based on Human Rights Watch’s September 24, 2026 assessment of internet censorship and restrictions in Russia. HRNW attributes the concerns regarding VPNs, online access and freedom of expression to Human Rights Watch and does not independently assess the government’s stated justification for individual measures.
