Google Limits Account Creation for Russian Users
In a significant move, Google has restricted the ability of Russian citizens to create new accounts on its platform. The Russian Ministry of Digital Development reported that while SMS confirmation for existing accounts remains functional, the future of this service is uncertain. Users have experienced a notable decrease in SMS messages from Google, prompting the ministry to advise individuals to back up their data and consider alternative authentication methods.
Ongoing Issues with Google Services
This restriction follows previous incidents where Russian users faced difficulties, particularly in early September when Google ceased allowing new account registrations using Russian phone numbers. Cybersecurity expert Alexei Kurochkin warned that the inability to recover passwords via SMS could pose serious challenges for existing users. He suggested that purchasing foreign phone numbers might be a workaround, although he emphasized the importance of transitioning to domestic services for reliability.
Consequences for Russian Content Creators
The situation has had dire implications for content creators as well. In August, Google began deleting Russian AdSense accounts without notice, severely impacting monetization for many bloggers and YouTube content creators. This abrupt action has left creators without a primary source of income, leading to calls for a shift towards local platforms like Yandex, where users can expect more accountability and support. RT Deputy Editor-in-Chief Anna Belkina remarked that Google's actions reflect its longstanding anti-Russian stance, which has been evident in its treatment of Russian media outlets.
Google's recent legal actions against Russian TV channel owners further illustrate its contentious relationship with Russian entities, raising questions about the future of digital services in Russia.
