Russia’s media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, has banned Discord, a popular messaging app used by gamers and cryptocurrency enthusiasts. The ban was enforced because Discord allegedly posted “illegal information” and didn’t follow a court order.
What Is Discord?
Discord is more than just a messaging app. It allows users to send instant messages, make voice and video calls, and create group chats. Over the years, it has gained popularity not only among gamers but also in some business circles. It’s a place where people connect, share ideas, and collaborate on projects.
The Ban Explained
Roskomnadzor announced on Tuesday that they restricted access to Discord because the platform violated Russian laws. They pointed to 947 posts that contained illegal content. This included disturbing topics such as calls for suicide, extremism, sexual abuse of children, and what the government calls “LGBT propaganda.” The watchdog emphasized that the ban aims to prevent the app from being used for harmful activities like terrorism, drug sales, and recruitment for extremist actions.
Court Orders Ignored
This isn’t the first time Discord has faced trouble in Russia. Last week, a Moscow court fined the company 3.5 million rubles (about $37,500) for not complying with previous court orders. Just a year ago, Discord ignored another fine of six million rubles. It seems the company hasn’t taken the government’s warnings seriously, leading to the recent crackdown.
Users Turn to Other Platforms
Many users in Russia began switching to other messaging apps like Telegram after Western sanctions were imposed due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, Discord still has a strong following among gamers and cryptocurrency traders. The app has become a key space for communication among blockchain developers and digital currency users.
The Future of Discord in Russia
Last month, the newspaper Kommersant hinted that Discord might face either a ban or reduced access if it continued to ignore Russian laws. This latest action raises questions about the future of the platform in the country. Will Russian users find new ways to communicate, or will they push back against these restrictions?
As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering how this ban will affect their online communities and whether Discord will find a way to comply with the Russian government’s demands.
