Russia's Internet Crackdown: Walkie-Talkies & Pagers in Demand

0:00On March 12, Muscovites are dealing with major internet outages in the capital, prompting many to dust off walkie-talkies and pages for basic. Communication. Officials seem to be testing a new whitelist system that would limit access to only government-approved sites and essential services like marketplaces and pharmacies. This comes as Russia ramps up online controls. Earlier this week, the disruptions hit hard, even cutting off mobile networks in Wi-Fi inside the state Duma, leaving lawmakers isolated. Russia topped the global list for internet shutdowns in 2025, according to research groups, often blamed on preventing Ukrainian drone. Attacks. Though experts doubt its effectiveness. People are filling the pinch in everyday life, from ordering taxis to sending emails or chatting with family. Sales of walkie-talkies jump 27% on major e-commerce sites. Researchers surged 73% and demand for paper maps of, Moscow nearly tripled as folks

1:00adapt to the downtime. Meanwhile, the crackdown continues with blocks on apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube, rumors of telegram restrictions next month, and plans to. Curved VPN traffic within six months. Authorities are also promoting a state super app called MAX, similar to China's WeChat, under tight security oversight. As these tests and restrictions evolve, Russians are finding creative ways to stay connected, highlighting the growing divide in the digital world.