Russia Introduces Ban on Offensive Language in Social Networks

A law prohibiting offensive language on social networks has come into force in Russia as of February 1. According to the document, platforms must independently identify and remove posts containing illegal content. Russian media outlets are reporting this information.

The definition of "illegal content" includes posts with offensive language, indecent messages that insult human dignity and social morality, publications that contain data on state secrets, justification of terrorism or calls for terrorism, and extremist materials. Additionally, materials promoting pornography and violence, articles containing information about drug manufacturing and use, methods of suicide, remote sale of alcohol, calls to participate in unsanctioned actions, and insults directed at the state and state symbols are also deemed illegal.

Under the amendments to the law on "Information, Information Technologies, and Information Protection," social networks are required to block illegal content within one day, and if the case is disputed, they must request the "Roskomnadzor" to review the case.

To monitor the situation, "Roskomnadzor" will create a registry of social networks, which must include websites with over 500,000 daily visits where users create personal pages and exchange messages. In cases of refusal to remove prohibited information, social networks will be fined between 800,000 and 4 million rubles. These penalties are also stipulated under the law concerning the restriction of access to prohibited information, which came into effect on January 10.