Russia Tightens VPN Blocks – Bypass with the Best VPN for Russia

In March 2024, a new law made it illegal for websites to share information about methods to bypass censorship, such as VPNs, promoting them as a criminal act. 

The Russian government has targeted VPN services that enable users to bypass restrictions. Although VPNs are not banned, many have been blocked or ineffective due to strict measures. According to reports, current efforts have successfully restricted VPN access, and additional funding is expected to enhance these capabilities further.

In this situation, let’s find out how to outsmart the Russian VPN blocking technology and bypass censorship with the best VPN for Russia. 

Is it Legal to Use a VPN in Russia?

Using a VPN in Russia is technically legal, but accessing restricted content is illegal. However, you can bypass these restrictions and access the internet freely. Make sure you choose a VPN provider that prioritizes user privacy and has a proven track record of bypassing heavy censorship in countries like Russia.

Why are VPNs Blocked in Russia?

Image source: Hackread

The Russian government has intensified its crackdown on VPNs, blocking over 100 domains associated with these services. While using VPNs is technically legal, accessing blocked content is considered illegal. 

Websites related to cryptocurrencies, such as Binance, have been banned. Sites offering circumvention tools or information on bypassing censorship were also blocked. Overall, the number of blocked websites in Russia has surged since February 2022, with estimates suggesting over 25,000 websites are currently restricted. 

Why are Websites Blocked in Russia?

The Russian Ministry of Digital Development intends to invest approximately $660 million over five years to strengthen its internet censorship capabilities. This funding will support the Technical Measures to Combat Threats (TSPU) system, which aims to monitor and restrict online content more effectively. 

Since February 2022, the number of blocked websites in Russia has soared, with estimates indicating that over 25,000 sites are currently restricted. These restrictions greatly restrict Russian citizens’ access to information and economic activities. 

Here are the current conditions of internet censorship in Russia.

Social Media Platforms

• Facebook: Completely banned in Russia.
• Instagram: Also banned alongside Facebook.
• YouTube: Access is restricted, with many channels and videos blocked.
• Twitter (X): Limited access, with several features and accounts blocked.
• Discord: Banned in October 2024 after failing to comply with government requests.

The good news is that you can bypass these blocks using a secure VPN. Few VPNs can bypass the strong censorship imposed by countries such as Russia, China, UAE, etc. Let’s find out how VPNs can bypass VPN blocks in Russia.

How Do VPNs Bypass Censorship?

Image Source: VPN Overview

When you connect to a VPN, your original IP address is masked and replaced with the IP address of the VPN server you connect to. This makes it appear you are accessing the Internet from the VPN server’s location. 

This helps bypass the geographical restrictions associated with IP addresses. VPNs also encrypt internet traffic, creating a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server. This encryption prevents third parties, such as governments or Internet Service Providers (ISPs), from monitoring your online activities or blocking access to content.

Some VPNs, like Symlex VPN, are equipped with advanced censorship bypass techniques. The government may employ more sophisticated censorship methods, such as deep packet inspection or IP blocking. A reliable VPN can help circumvent these measures by frequently changing the IP addresses and utilizing strong encryption.

How to Choose the Best VPN for Russia in 2024

You must consider some key features to choose the best VPN in Russia.

Advanced Encryption

The VPN you choose for Russia should be equipped with advanced AES-256-bit encryption for maximum security. Stronger encryption ensures no one can break through the connection and intercept what you do with a VPN.

VPN Blocking Bypass Capability

Countries with heavy censorship, like China, Russia, and the Middle East, have VPN-blocking solid technologies. So, the VPN you choose should have obfuscation technology to bypass these blocks and connect in hostile environments.

Secure VPN Protocols

Ensure the VPN you choose has OpenVPN, WireGuard, and secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, Shadowsocks, Open connect, etc. These protocols allow you to securely connect to the VPN network according to your situational needs.

Strict No-logs Policy

Having a no-logging policy is a must. A no-log policy means the VPN provider does not keep any of your data, such as browsing records or your original IP address. This ensures that even if the VPN provider gets compromised, they have nothing to give.

Speed & Performance

Another crucial factor is speed and performance. Strong encryption often slows VPNs, so connect to servers nearest your location and use optimized protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, Shadowsocks, etc., for maximum speed.

Best 3 VPNs for Russia to Access Blocked Websites

Symlex VPN – Best Overall VPN

Symlex VPN allows you to bypass everything! It’s equipped with AES-256-bit military-grade encryption for robust security and secure protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, Shadowsocks, etc., to give you more control over VPN usage.

It has a strict no-logging policy and comes with 10 Gbps high-speed servers. With Symlex VPN, you can bypass even the strongest geo-blocking restrictions and VPN block bypass technology within countries like China, Russia, and the Middle East.

Key Features

• AES-256 bit encryption
• 95+ high-speed servers
• Strict no-logs policy
• Double VPN support
• DNS leak protection
• In-app secure browser
• Ad-block by default
• P2P, Torrenting support
• Dark Web Monitoring
• 5-devices connection
• Kill switch & split tunneling
• 24/7 human customer support
• 30 days money-back guarantee 

Proton VPN – Known for Privacy

Image Source: Privacy Journal

Proton VPN is one of the best VPN options for Russia for privacy lovers. It offers advanced encryption, robust obfuscation techniques, and a strict no-logs policy. 

Proton VPN’s servers are strategically located to bypass censorship in Russia, and its WireGuard protocol ensures fast and reliable connections. 

With servers in countries neighboring Russia, Proton VPN can effectively circumvent geo-restrictions and provide uncensored access to the internet. Its user-friendly apps make it easy to set up and use, even for those new to VPNs.

Key Features

• AES-256 bit encryption
• Swiss-based privacy
• Secure VPN protocols
• No speed & bandwidth limit
• VPN accelerator for faster speed
• 10 Gbps high-speed servers
• Secure core for privacy
• Ad-block support by default
• Up to 10 devices support

Planet VPN – Popular Amongst Russians

Image Source: Microsoft

Planet VPN is another reliable option for Russian users. It offers robust encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced obfuscation techniques to bypass censorship. 

With servers strategically located in countries near Russia, Planet VPN can effectively bypass geo-restrictions and provide uncensored access to the internet. 

Its user-friendly apps and reliable performance make it a great choice for those seeking a secure and accessible VPN in Russia.

Key Features

• 256-bit hard drive encryption
• 1260+ high-speed servers
• Strict no logging policy
• Advance geo-blovk bypass
• Double VPN, Tor, P2P, Streaming
• Dedicated servers for gaming
• No ads in the application
• Up to 10 devices support
• Live chat or email customer support

Final Words

So using a reliable VPN like Symlex VPN, Proton VPN or Planet VPN is crucial for accessing the internet freely and securely in Russia. 

These VPNs offer advanced features to bypass restrictions, maintain user privacy, and provide fast, stable connections. Choosing a trustworthy VPN provider allows Russians to access blocked websites in 2024 without hassle.