Apple removes VPN apps at request of Russian authorities, say app makers
Reading Time: 2 minutesApple has removed several VPN apps from its App Store in Russia at the request of the government’s communications watchdog, according to VPN makers.
Last week, Russian news agency Interfax reported that Apple had removed 25 VPN apps from its App Store in Russia after Roskomnadzor, a government body that regulates the internet — including what Russians can access — demanded the removals.
The internet in Russia is heavily controlled and censored, so Russian online users often rely on VPNs to circumvent restrictions and access blocked content.
The letter essentially argues that the VPN apps in question are in violation of Russian law.
‘Apps must comply with all legal requirements in any location where you make them available (if you’re not sure, check with a lawyer),’ the letter reads. ‘We know this stuff is complicated, but it is your responsibility to understand and make sure your app conforms with all local laws, not just the guidelines below.’
The letter did not provide a specific reason for the app removals, but that Roskomnadzor’s takedown request was authorized by a specific article of Russia’s federal law.
It’s the latest crackdown on VPNs since the government introduced a ban on VPN advertising ahead of the country’s election in March.
Zdolnikov said in an email that Red Shield VPN, as well as other apps that were removed, like HideMyName and Le VPN, ‘are developed and maintained by people who have an in-depth understanding of Russia’s internet censorship mechanisms.’
‘We know how to circumvent these restrictions and are constantly improving our services. Despite years of efforts to block our services, they remain accessible to users,’ Zdolnikov wrote. ‘It turns out that Apple did this work for the Russian authorities and with better quality.’
‘We received a notice from [Roskomnadzor] via Apple after our app had already been removed, giving us no opportunity to address the concerns. This appears to be part of a broader crackdown affecting at least 25 VPN providers in Russia,’ Votinov said.
Ref: techcrunch
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