Russia drafts new telecom rules framed as anti-fraud measures
Russia's Digital Development Ministry has proposed amendments to the communications law that would let citizens manage phone number restrictions, buy eSIMs, and verify identity remotely through the Max messaging app and biometric data systems. The changes are presented as a response to phone scams.
Russians already have the option to block themselves from obtaining a new phone number, either by visiting a telecom operator's office in person or by applying remotely through the Gosuslugi state services portal.
Starting March 1, 2027, this self-restriction option will expand: citizens will also be able to block incoming calls originating from abroad using the same methods. Currently, the only way to lift such self-imposed restrictions is an in-person visit to a government services center.
New remote verification tools
The Digital Development Ministry has proposed allowing people to lift these restrictions remotely as well, including through the Max messaging app. Under the plan, users would also be able to purchase a new eSIM through Max.
Proposed amendments to the Federal Law "On Communications" would allow communications service contracts to be concluded over the internet in most cases, provided the individual gives consent through specified methods, including an enhanced unqualified electronic signature.
This method of consent relies on submitting information from documents establishing a citizen's identity through a multifunctional information exchange service. A prerequisite is that a photograph of the citizen has already been matched against their biometric data held in Russia's Unified Biometric System.
A related provision, Article 45 of the same law, states that restrictions on signing mobile contracts and on receiving calls from foreign telecom networks could likewise be lifted using this electronic identification method rather than requiring an in-person visit.
Authorities are presenting the proposed changes as tools to combat telephone fraud, though they would also significantly expand the role of biometric identification and centralized personal data systems in managing telecom services across Russia.
