Google Restricts New Account Creation in Russia, Says Russian Ministry of Digital Development

Google has restricted the creation of new accounts in the Russian Federation, according to a statement from the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media on Thursday.

"The Ministry confirms that Google has limited the ability to create new accounts. Telecom operators have also observed a significant decrease in the number of SMS messages sent by the company to Russian users," the statement said.

The ministry further clarified that "SMS verification as a second factor of authentication for existing Google accounts is still working, but there is no guarantee this feature will remain available."

The Ministry of Digital Development advised users of Google services to back up their data, switch to alternative two-factor authentication methods, or consider migrating to domestic platforms.

Previously on September 9, Russian internet users reported issues with creating new Google accounts, which are used to access Gmail and other online services provided by the company.