Thu Sep 26 12:38:01 UTC 2024: ## Apple Removes Nearly 100 VPN Apps from Russian App Store

**Moscow, Russia** – Apple has been quietly removing VPN apps from its App Store in Russia, according to a new investigation by anti-censorship group GreatFire. This summer alone, over 50 VPN apps have been pulled, bringing the total to nearly 100 this year.

This move comes as Russia continues to tighten its grip on internet access and information control. While Roskomnadzor, Russia’s communications authority, previously ordered the removal of only 25 VPN apps, GreatFire’s data reveals a much more aggressive approach by Apple. The company has now blocked over 20% of known VPN apps from being available in Russia.

VPNs are essential tools for users to protect their privacy and access content blocked by government censorship. Their removal further limits Russians’ ability to access social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which have been banned in the country, as well as non-Russian news sources.

This crackdown on VPN apps is part of a broader trend of internet control in Russia. The government has throttled YouTube speeds to the point of unusability, banned Google AdSense accounts, and restricted the creation of new Google accounts. Furthermore, US sanctions have forced web hosting and productivity platforms, like Wix and Notion, to ban Russian users.

These measures are effectively isolating Russians from the outside world and limiting their access to free and open information.

While Apple has not commented on the matter, its actions in Russia echo its previous compliance with China’s VPN ban in 2017. The company has also deleted other apps, including Threads, WhatsApp, and Signal, from the App Store in China.

The investigation by GreatFire highlights the significant role tech companies play in shaping internet access and censorship around the world. It also raises concerns about the future of online freedom in Russia and other countries where governments are increasingly seeking to control information flow.

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