Roskomnadzor

Roskomnadzor, the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media, is a federal executive body of the Russian government responsible for oversight of information technology, telecommunications and mass media. It was established in 2008 from earlier regulatory agencies and operates under the government, with its head appointed by authorities. The agency is headquartered in Moscow and maintains regional offices.

Roskomnadzor’s remit covers the regulation of broadcasting and print media, online mass media, telecom networks, and the protection and processing of personal data. It enforces compliance with Russian information laws, issues licenses and registrations as required for media and communications operators, and maintains registers related to information distribution and access to online resources.

A central function is content control: Roskomnadzor can require removal of illegal or prohibited material and can order internet service providers to block access to websites and services that violate Russian law. It also oversees compliance with data localization rules and the transfer of personal data to servers located in Russia, and it can impose penalties such as fines on individuals and companies for violations.

The agency has been involved in high-profile online-content actions, including the blocking of Telegram in 2018 and ongoing regulation of social networks, messaging apps, and virtual private networks. It coordinates with law enforcement and courts to implement access restrictions and to enforce sanctions against noncompliant platforms.

Roskomnadzor is often discussed in the context of Russia’s broader information policy and internet governance. Critics describe its activity as censorship and a constraint on digital rights, while supporters regard it as a means to regulate a sensitive communications environment and protect personal data and national security.