Russia Escalates Internet Crackdown: Fines for Searching 'Extremist' Content

Russian lawmakers have passed new legislation that punishes individuals for searching online for content deemed 'extremist' by authorities. The law, which expands existing censorship measures, allows for fines against users who access or look up banned information, including web pages, books, and music. This marks a significant tightening of digital controls, as previous laws targeted only the sharing of such content. The move has sparked criticism from activists and even some pro-Kremlin figures, who warn it could further stifle dissent and free expression. The crackdown comes amid ongoing efforts by the Kremlin to control information and suppress opposition, especially since the invasion of Ukraine.