Russia is gradually turning into an information camp, and even children aged 8-15 are being affected. Authorities have started blocking popular online platforms such as games and social services previously available to millions of users. A new, stricter control system has been launched, including DPI technology that allows filtering even encrypted internet traffic. This enables the blocking of not just specific websites, but entire groups of services—such as VPNs, political resources, apps, and games.
The first signs of the system's implementation appeared on December 3rd, when large numbers of Russian users began complaining about Roblox not working. Down Detector received nearly 11,000 complaints in one day. Roblox is an American online platform with over 150 million global users daily and around 18 million in Russia each month.
Roskomnadzor, Russia’s internet regulator, cited the presence of materials allegedly justifying extremism and violence, inciting terrorist acts, and LGBTQ propaganda as causes for the block. The regulator also noted that Roblox’s internal moderation failed to block prohibited content. Experts say that the actual goal of these measures is to gain full Kremlin control over online space and limit independent information access for children and teenagers.
Following the block, many Russian children and teens expressed a desire to leave the country after losing their favorite leisure and communication platform. Experts emphasize that the new control system will make circumvention attempts more difficult and highlights the radicalization of the country’s information policy.
