Russia Builds a National IMEI Database to Enable Total Phone Surveillance

New Legislative Measures in Russia

According to Главком: Russia has passed a law establishing a state-run database of mobile device identification numbers (IMEI). This system will allow government agencies and telecom operators to link specific SIM cards to individual phones. The stated goal is to detect cases where SIM cards are used in drones. Under the new rules, mobile network operators and authorized state bodies are required to input data into the system. Operators must record which IMEI number is associated with each SIM card.

Potential Consequences and Future Plans

Russia's Ministry of Digital Development has stated that there will be no fee for mandatory smartphone registration in the IMEI database. However, additional costs related to the system's operation could be passed on to buyers of mobile devices. The database will include information on devices that are either permitted or banned for use within Russian territory.

Furthermore, Russian authorities have outlined plans to tighten internet control. Specifically, the Kremlin intends to introduce charges for international internet traffic used by mobile subscribers. The Ministry of Digital Development is also preparing a reform of the telecom market, which would reduce the number of available operator licenses and significantly raise the financial requirements to obtain them. It is worth recalling that Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service previously reported that Russian authorities had developed a strategy aimed at increasing state control over the internet.

The adoption of this law signals the Russian government's intent to tighten its grip on communication technologies and enforce stricter monitoring of mobile device usage.

The creation of the IMEI database could have serious implications for user privacy and business operations in the country. Combined with plans to control internet traffic, this suggests a state drive to reduce anonymity in the online space-raising concerns about freedom of speech and access to information in Russia.

The establishment of the IMEI database is just one aspect of a broader trend towards increased internet regulation in Russia. As the government tightens its grip on communication technologies, growing discontent regarding internet censorship has emerged among the populace, highlighting the potential backlash against such extensive surveillance measures.