Russia's third anti-fraud package targets VPNs, eSIMs, and data retention

Russia's Digital Development Ministry published a third anti-fraud package that would push VPN services off Russian servers, tie eSIMs to devices, and expand telecom data retention. This continues a pattern of using fraud prevention as a pretext for tighter internet controls, following bans on Telegram and WhatsApp calls. The proposals signal further state surveillance and control over digital communications, with implications for cybersecurity and civil liberties.