Russia forces Apple to remove VPN apps from the App Store
Russia pressured Apple to remove top iPhone VPN apps due to illegal content, following increased VPN service blocking. Apple notified 25 firms affected by the removals, sparking debates on compliance and censorship tensions.
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Russia has pressured Apple to remove several top iPhone VPN apps from the App Store in the country. The demand came from Roskomnadzor, the state media watchdog, citing illegal content in the apps. This move follows increased blocking of VPN services by the regulator. Apple notified VPN developers via email about the app removals, affecting around 25 firms. VPN usage surged in Russia during the conflict with Ukraine, allowing users to bypass government restrictions. VPNs encrypt data for security and hide user locations. Critics suggest Apple should cease operations in Russia, while others argue that Apple complied to prevent user access disruptions. The removal of VPN apps reflects ongoing tensions between tech companies and government censorship efforts.
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4 commentsRelated
US Bans Kaspersky Software
The US Commerce Department banned Kaspersky's antivirus sales to new customers from July 20, limiting updates for existing users until September 29. Alleged national security concerns over Kaspersky's Russian ties prompted the ban.
VPN by Google One shuts down
Google One has discontinued its VPN service due to low usage. Existing Pixel owners retain access to a limited Pixel VPN. Google Fi Wireless subscribers can still use a VPN service. Users should delete the now-defunct VPN app from their devices.
European Union regulators accuse Apple of breaching the bloc's tech rules
EU accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations for restricting App Store alternatives and charging high developer fees. New probe initiated on contractual terms. Apple defends changes, faces potential fines up to 10%.
Apple is taking down VPN apps following the Russian censorship agency demands
Le VPN was removed from the Russian App Store due to non-compliance with local laws. The incident highlights Roskomnadzor's control over internet content and tech companies, impacting future services and global tech operations.
Apple bows to Kremlin pressure to remove leading VPNs from Russian AppStore
Apple complies with Kremlin's request to remove VPN services from Russian AppStore due to Roskomnadzor's pressure. This move aligns with increased online censorship in Russia post-Ukraine invasion, impacting access to blocked content.