Apple and Microsoft have been added to Russia's state surveillance registry, requiring them to store users' communications and provide access to security agencies upon request. The companies were listed on October 2 as "organizers of information dissemination" by Roskomnadzor, Russia's communications regulator. Under the law, they must store local users' correspondence, audio and video messages, and user information within Russia for three years, handing data over to security services when demanded.
Non-compliance can result in fines and service restrictions. This follows Russia's ongoing crackdown on foreign messaging platforms, including blocking WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and FaceTime. Apple's relationship with Russia has deteriorated since the 2022 Ukraine invasion, leading to suspended sales and export restrictions.
The company continued operating the App Store despite disputes, including removal of apps from Russian state-controlled companies and banking apps linked to sanctioned institutions. Russia's antitrust regulator also opened proceedings against Apple for failing to preinstall state-backed messaging and app marketplace apps.
Source: 9to5Mac · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing