Putin Considers Ban On Internet Content Deems "Toxic"

Vladimir Putin will ban content deemed toxic to the Russian public. (photo: twitter @kremlinrussia_e)

JAKARTA – Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his government to consider a real new system to ban "toxic" internet content, although details as to what it will be are not released.

The new system, which is listed on a presidential order list on the Kremlin's website, is described as a "self-administered list of toxic content" to be used "to protect minors". The Kremlin will review it on June 1.

The order, which officially appeared on Thursday, January 27, was first reported by Russian media on Saturday, January 29.

According to a Reuters report, Putin has hinted at plans for a wider crackdown on online content. He has also blamed the internet for corrupting youth which has sparked street protests by political opponents labeled extremists by the authorities.

Russia stepped up the pressure last year on foreign technology companies, imposing penalties including a nearly $100 million fine on Google for failing to remove content banned in the country.

In December, Putin signaled support for proposals from members of his human rights council for a new voluntary mechanism to ban toxic content, which Russian online platforms would approve in exchange for being treated better than foreign platforms.