Putin signs law enabling FSB to order individual internet and mobile disconnections, cites security concerns

On February 20 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law that empowers the Federal Security Service (FSB) to order the disconnection of individuals from mobile and home internet services across the country, citing overarching security concerns. The legislation, officially endorsed by the State Duma on February 17, compels telecom operators to sever users’ access whenever requested by the FSB and absolves providers from legal liability for such shutdowns. It expands state control over digital communications, allowing authorities to block a person’s connectivity—whether from home or in transit—without any court oversight, including in territories under Moscow’s administration such as occupied regions of Ukraine. The new law amends Russia’s Communications Code, granting the FSB sweeping powers to restrict internet and mobile networks on a per‑individual basis. Critics argue that the move strengthens the Kremlin’s ability to stifle dissent and tighten information flows amid ongoing wartime censorship and domestic crackdowns. The act comes in the wake of earlier attempts to block the Meta‑owned WhatsApp app in February, a tactic that has intensified government efforts to censor social media. In line with the law, the Russian Ministry of Digital Development and major internet providers approved a “white list” of websites that would remain accessible during internet blackouts. The list includes state portals, e‑commerce platforms such as Ozon and Wildberries, major search engines and services like Yandex, as well as Kremlin‑backed platforms such as VKontakte, Odnoklassniki and the Max messenger. However, observers report that even these services often struggle to function properly amid full outages. The legislation also stays in force over the occupied parts of Ukraine, effectively extending Moscow’s authority over digital infrastructure beyond its internationally recognised borders. The rapid legislative passage—reviewed in January and approved in a final reading within three days—has triggered debate over civil liberties and the balance between national security and individual rights. Opinion columnists and independent media outlets warn that the law creates a “digital lifeline” for state surveillance, raising questions about privacy, the role of the judiciary, and the potential for abuse in a politically tense climate.