In June—July, regular exercises on the stability of the Runet were held. This time the possibility of working in conditions of physical disconnection of the Russian internet from the global network was tested
Seven main operators of Russia took part in the exercises. The purpose of the exercises was to determine the possibility of the Runet working in the event of external distortions, blockages and other threats. According to preliminary data, the exercises were a success.
Roskomnadzor noted that in accordance with the legislation, such exercises, which are aimed at improving the integrity, stability and security of the Russian Internet infrastructure, are held annually.
In February, the head of the information and analytical agency TelecomDaily, Denis Kuskov, suggested that if Russia is disconnected from the global network, it will be possible to use Runet and domestic resources. At the same time, in the context of sanctions pressure on Russia, disconnection from the global network can be perceived as additional restrictions.
In turn, the deputy head of the Russian Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, said that disconnecting Russia from the global network is possible, but the authorities have a plan of action for this case. He added that everything is ready for the autonomous operation of the Runet both technologically and at the legislative level.
Recall, on May 1, 2019, Putin signed a law on the isolation of the Runet. The new law determines that Roskomnadzor assumes all the authority for managing networks in case of threats to the Russian Internet. In addition, Roskomnadzor has the right to directly block websites with prohibited information.
The Runet isolation will affect all Russian business, but only Telecom operators must install special equipment to monitor cyber threats at the state’s expense. The State financed about 30 billion rubles ($ 460 000 000) for its execution.
Moreover, representatives of big business warned that banning modern website encryption protocols in Russia is tantamount to disconnecting the country from the global Internet. The adoption of the bill in the proposed form, in their opinion, will formally make it illegal to use smartphones and computers and will entail "catastrophic consequences".