Tensions between Google and the Russian government continue to rise. The Kremlin has not liked the Mountain View giant’s actions regarding blocking services in the country or removing state-backed content. Now, Russia’s digital ministry claims that Google has restricted the creation of new accounts on the platform for users in the country.
Russian ministry says Google is restricting the creation of new accounts
Google and Russia have had tension for years. The Russian government has spoken out against Google’s refusal to remove content considered illegal by the state. This content frequently links to opponents of the Putin administration. After the conflict between Russia and Ukraine began, Google blocked access to its ad services and disabled AdSense accounts for Russian users. The company has also demonetized or removed content that approves or supports Ukraine’s invasion. This includes blocking thousands of YouTube channels and removing millions of videos.
Now, Russia’s Digital Communications Ministry claims that Google restricts the creation of new accounts in the country. It also suggests that the SMS-based two-factor authentication service has stopped working. “Telecom operators have also recorded a significant reduction in the number of SMS messages sent by the company to Russian users,” the ministry said. Therefore, it is recommending that Russian users make backup copies of all content saved on Google services. It also suggests that they switch to other two-factor authentication solutions or move to Russian services.
Other movements during the conflict between Russia and Google
In early August, the possibility of a complete block of Google, Android, and iOS by the Russian government emerged. Russians also reported video playback and loading issues on YouTube due to speed throttling. At the time, the Russian government blamed Google, but the company claimed that the problem was not on its side.
Issues with Google-based tech for Russian users appear to be escalating. The alleged blocking of the creation of new Google accounts in the country is a severe blow. If everything continues as it is, they’ll probably have to move to another platform sooner rather than later.