Russian Ministry Clarifies No Plans to Disable Apple iPhones Despite New Device Registry
The Russian Ministry of Digital Development has officially stated that no government body or telecom operator has the authority to remotely disable iPhones or other devices from specific manufacturers. The clarification was issued in response to an inquiry from deputy Vladimir Plyakin regarding rumors of potential restrictions if Apple fails to comply with Russian legislation. Current laws do not permit turning user devices into non-functional bricks through any centralized mechanism. However, amendments to the law On Communications will introduce a national registry of user equipment identifiers starting March 1, 2027. The ministry is still developing the regulatory framework for this database, including what data will be collected and which agencies will have access. Officials emphasized that the existence of the registry does not imply any capability for mass device deactivation at this stage.
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