On July 4, 2024, Apple removed several virtual private network (VPN) apps from its Russian App Store following a directive from Russia's state communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor.
This action impacted 25 VPN service providers, including ProtonVPN, Red Shield VPN, NordVPN, and Le VPN, as reported by MediaZona. Identically worded messages from Apple's app review team to Red Shield VPN and Le VPN confirmed the removal "per demand from Roskomnadzor."
Impact on VPN Services and Users
Affected VPN Providers
The removal included apps from 25 VPN service providers, such as ProtonVPN, Red Shield VPN, NordVPN, and Le VPN. Notably, NordVPN had already shut down its Russian servers in March 2019. Red Shield VPN stated that Apple's actions were motivated by a desire to retain revenue from the Russian market. Representatives from Red Shield and Le VPN shared notifications they received from the App Store, which cited complaints from Roskomnadzor and suggested that developers contact the Russian agency directly.
Legal Justifications and Reactions
Le VPN mentioned that the takedown was executed in accordance with No. 7 of Article 15.1 of the Federal Law dated July 27, 2006, No. 149-FZ "On Information, Information Technologies and Information Protection." Le VPN's app was removed even before they received an official notice from Roskomnadzor.
The VPN services have now been added to the "Unified register" of internet resources prohibited for public distribution in Russia. Screenshots of emails published by Le VPN and Red Shield VPN indicated that the apps were removed due to containing unspecified “content that is illegal in Russia.” Red Shield VPN recommended users change their Apple ID’s region or country settings to regain access.
Broader Implications of the Crackdown
Roskomnadzor's Control Over Internet Access
"This event marks a significant step in Roskomnadzor's ongoing efforts to control internet access and content within Russian territory," Le VPN stated. The Kremlin has intensified censorship measures since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war in February 2022, blocking multiple media outlets and social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Over the past few years, Roskomnadzor has blocked more than a dozen VPN services, including Cloudflare WARP, NordVPN, Red Shield VPN, and Opera VPN. In the spring of 2022, the regulator began prohibiting entire protocols used for VPNs.
VPN Providers' Countermeasures
To counter the crackdown, Le VPN has introduced an alternative service named Le VPN Give. This service allows users to connect to secret servers using third-party open-source software and obfuscated VPN connections.
Additionally, Red Shield VPN recommended users change their Apple ID's region or country settings to regain access. Le VPN has appealed the decision with Roskomnadzor and is collaborating with other VPNs and rights activists to assess its implications.
Editor's Comments
The removal of VPN apps from the Russian App Store by Apple, following directives from Roskomnadzor, significantly impacts the availability of VPN services for Russian users. This action underscores the growing influence of government regulations on app markets, limiting user access to essential privacy tools and potentially leading to a decline in VPN usage within the country.
For developers, this event highlights the importance of staying informed about local regulations and preparing for similar challenges in the future. Strategies such as diversifying distribution channels, investing in advanced obfuscation techniques, and educating users on alternative access methods will be crucial in maintaining service availability and user engagement in increasingly restrictive environments.
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