Russian Authorities Consider Banning Discord, Threatening Access for Millions of Users

Tens of millions of Russian Discord users are on edge as authorities in the country consider banning the popular instant messaging and call platform. Recent reports have revealed that Russia’s media watchdog Roskomnadzor (RKN) is contemplating taking restrictive actions against Discord, with the possibility of a complete ban looming.

The potential ban comes in light of an October 1st order from RKN, demanding that Discord remove nearly a thousand pieces of “illegal content.” This content reportedly includes disturbing material such as child pornography, calls for extremism, and pro-drug content. RKN has accused Discord of failing to comply with previous removal requests, resulting in a hefty fine of 3.5 million roubles ($37,500).

Discord boasts a massive user base in Russia, estimated to be between 30 and 40 million. The platform is especially popular among Russian gamers, with many Redditors noting its widespread use among the younger generation. Some have even claimed that Discord is more popular than platforms like Reddit in the country.

This move by Russian authorities follows a trend of cracking down on digital platforms for alleged legal violations and national security concerns. Earlier this year, Signal, an encrypted messenger app, was blocked by RKN, and other major platforms like Reddit, Google, and Youtube have faced fines over similar issues.

As Russian Discord users anxiously await the outcome of these deliberations, the future of the platform in the country remains uncertain.