Russia Drafts Revised Information Security Doctrine
The Russian government has announced it is preparing a new version of its Information Security Doctrine. According to the Foreign Intelligence Service, the updated doctrine will formally classify Western technologies as threats and expand state surveillance of information resources. In the coming years, Russia may transition to an internet 'whitelist' model, where access is granted only to state-approved websites. This shift is part of a broader strategy to tighten control over the information space, which includes criminalizing unauthorized communication channels and deploying mass facial recognition systems.
Classifying Threats and Tools of 'Destructive Influence'
Under the new doctrine, Western digital technologies—including mobile devices, satellite internet (such as Starlink), email services, and IT solutions from Western companies—will be categorized as 'tools of destructive information-technical influence.' The list of threats in the doctrine will also encompass:
- anti-Russian information campaigns,
- intelligence activities in cyberspace,
- cyberattacks on IT infrastructure.
This policy shift occurs against a backdrop of increasing internet restrictions within Russia. In 2025 alone, the total duration of intentional internet shutdowns in the country reached 37.1 thousand hours. Russia is among the world leaders in the scale of internet censorship and the length of deliberate network disruptions. Vladimir Putin has commented on these measures, stating:
“Turning off mobile internet in the country's regions is allegedly necessary to protect against drone raids and strikes.” - Vladimir Putin
These actions highlight the growing focus of the Russian authorities on controlling the information environment and security in the face of modern challenges.
The revisions to the Information Security Doctrine reflect a significant tightening of control over information flows and the technologies used within the country. Amid global tensions and cyber threats, the Russian government aims to ensure information stability by deploying new surveillance mechanisms and restricting access to resources it deems potentially dangerous. This move is widely seen as part of a long-term effort to shape public opinion and manage the domestic information landscape, which could profoundly impact how the Russian population receives and perceives news.