Internet for Millions of Users Across Russia

Internet users across Russia are experiencing slow and unstable connections due to widespread infrastructure damage. This issue has significantly affected communication, business operations, and access to essential services. The internet slowdown is attributed to major cable damage in key regions across Russia, which are critical for internet connectivity as they carry data between servers and user devices. Possible causes include physical damage from construction work, natural disasters, or accidents, cyberattacks, and infrastructure wear and tear. Authorities have launched investigations to determine the exact cause, but no official explanation has been provided yet.

The internet disruption is not uniform across the country, with some regions experiencing complete outages, while others face slower speeds and unstable connections. Highly affected regions include Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Siberian and Far Eastern Regions. Rural areas, already struggling with limited internet access, have been hit the hardest, cutting off communication and essential online services.

The slowdown has severely affected businesses that rely on stable internet connections, such as online retailers, banks, and IT companies. E-commerce, banking, IT industry, and public services such as healthcare, emergency services, and public transportation systems have also been impacted. The Russian government has acknowledged the issue and is working to restore full internet services.

Cybersecurity threats have been speculated, with experts suggesting that the damage might not be accidental and could be part of a cybersecurity threat aimed at disrupting Russia’s web infrastructure. Theories include foreign cyber operations, domestic cyber threats, and hacktivist groups.

People are turning to alternative means to stay connected, such as mobile networks, offline work, and satellite web services. Social media platforms are flooded with complaints and updates about the ongoing issues, although access to these platforms is also unstable.

The net has been severely disrupted in Russia, causing delays in healthcare, emergency response, and transport systems. The Russian government is working to restore webnet services and repair damaged infrastructure. However, public criticism is growing due to the perceived lack of preparedness and slow response. Some experts suggest the damage could be part of a cybersecurity threat aimed at disrupting Russia’s internet infrastructure. As a result, people are turning to alternative means to stay connected, such as mobile networks, offline work, and satellite net services.