Russia: FSB Granted Power to Block Mobile Phones and Internet

The Russian parliament has approved a bill granting the Federal Security Service (FSB) the right to order telecommunications providers to block mobile phone and Internet connections.

The State Duma approved the amendment to the telecommunications law in an emergency session. The wording regarding protection from security threats was removed from the final text, with the country's leadership determining the reasons.

State news agency TASS reported that mobile operators will not be liable if customers complain about access bans. The new amendment will take effect 10 days after being signed by Putin.

The powers of the FSB have been strengthened under Putin, while Russians appear wary of online surveillance.