Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 2 hrs ago
Russia adds Apple and Microsoft to data disclosure register
Russia added Apple and Microsoft to a government register that covers digital communication providers.
The designation means the companies must keep Russian users’ records for three years and store them within the country.
Authorities may request correspondence, voice recordings, video exchanges, customer details and records showing how communications move through company systems.
Companies that do not comply face fines, and repeated violations could lead to service bans in Russia.
The move adds pressure on foreign communication platforms, as Russia has also restricted access to services including WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and FaceTime.
Apple and Microsoft have not said how they will respond or whether the new rules will affect their services or business in Russia.
Russia added Apple and Microsoft to a register requiring digital communication providers to retain and disclose user records.
The companies must keep covered records for three years and store them in Russia.
Authorities may request correspondence, voice recordings and video exchanges linked to users of their services.
Companies that fail to comply risk financial penalties and, for persistent violations, possible service bans.
Neither company had publicly explained how it would respond to the requirements.
- Who
- Apple and Microsoft, under requirements set by Russian authorities.
- What
- They were added to a register requiring communication records to be retained and disclosed when requested.
- When
- Roskomnadzor added them on October 2, 2026.
- Where
- Russia.
- Why
- Russian law imposes data retention and disclosure requirements on covered digital communication providers.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Apple suspended product sales and exports after the war in Ukraine began.
Google and its video conferencing service were added to the register.
Russian customers lost the ability to buy new App Store content or renew subscriptions without sufficient funds in their Apple Accounts.
Apple removed several applications developed by VK, prompting the Kremlin to demand an explanation.
Russia's antitrust regulator opened proceedings against Apple over preinstallation requirements.
Roskomnadzor added Apple and Microsoft to the register.
- Companies
- Apple and Microsoft
- Register addition
- October 2, 2026
- Retention period
- Three years
- Storage location
- Within Russia
- Possible penalties
- Financial penalties and possible service bans for persistent violations
- Other listed providers
- Google Meet, WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Cloudflare and Blizzard Entertainment