Google Restricts New Account Creation for Russians

Google has restricted the creation of new accounts for Russian users, reports the Ministry of Digital Development. The ministry stated, "Telecommunication operators have also recorded a significant reduction in the number of SMS messages sent to Russian users by the company, as the two-factor authentication for previously created Google accounts is still active, but there is no confidence that this feature will continue."

The ministry recommends that users of Google services back up their data, as well as switch to alternative methods of two-factor authentication or use domestic platforms.

In September, some Google users reported dissatisfaction over their inability to open accounts using Russian mobile numbers. During the verification of numbers, the service issued a warning: "An error occurred, please try again later." Verification codes were also not received.