Russia Tightens Spam Controls with New Legislation and Homegrown Tech

Russian citizens are unlikely to face a spam epidemic, thanks to a mix of user tools, browser-level defenses, and pending legal reforms.

Russia is ramping up its fight against unsolicited emails and messages by pursuing multiple lines of defense. According to Vitaly Vekhov, professor at Bauman Moscow State Technical University, the country is deploying both technical and legal strategies to curb digital spam.

At the user level, Russian developers have created software that effectively blocks unwanted emails. These tools are already integrated into domestically developed browsers and operating systems, with companies releasing updates to keep pace with evolving spam bots.

Vekhov also highlighted recent legislative initiatives. A new bill submitted to the State Duma proposes amendments to laws such as 'On Mass Media.' The proposed changes would give citizens the right to ban spam messages—even from companies or platforms they previously interacted with and granted permission to use their personal data.

As these measures roll out, Russia aims to maintain digital hygiene and protect users from the growing complexity of unsolicited digital communication.