Russian court fines Alphabet’s Google and Meta Platforms

Moscow has increased pressure on big tech this year in a campaign that critics characterise as an attempt by the Russian authorities to exert tighter control over the internet, something they say threatens individual and corporate freedom.

Russia has ordered companies to delete posts promoting drug abuse and dangerous pastimes, information about homemade weapons and explosives, as well as ones by groups it designates as extremist or terrorist.

Russia has demanded it restore access to state-backed broadcaster RT’s German-language channels.

Moscow has also demanded that 13 foreign and mostly U.S. technology companies, which include Google and Meta Platforms, be officially represented on Russian soil by Jan. 1 or face possible restrictions or outright bans.

Photo credit REUTERS/Paresh Dave//File Photo

Navy Vet

Article URL : https://www.reuters.com/technology/russian-court-fines-alphabets-google-72-bln-roubles-2021-12-24/