russia Expanding Digital Control Once Again: Purchase of 18+ Goods – only After Identification

In russia, the authorities continue to tighten digital control over citizens, expanding the use of biometrics and imposing strict restrictions in the field of telecommunications. There are plans to introduce mandatory biometric identification for online purchases of age-restricted goods (18+).

The strategy for implementing family and demographic policy until 2036 provides for the development of mechanisms for stricter age verification when delivering goods for adults. In this way, the state seeks to expand the practice of remote identification, which is already used when receiving public services and conducting banking operations.

In parallel, mass SIM card blocking continues. In 2025, more than 18 million numbers were blocked in russia – a significant increase compared to the previous year. The reasons cited include the use of inaccurate personal data, lack of registration in the Unified Biometric System for Foreigners, and exceeding the established limit of SIM cards per subscriber. Since 2025, russians have been allowed to register no more than 20 numbers per passport, and foreigners – no more than 10.

Blocking often affects conscientious users due to errors made by communication salon employees when entering personal data. Restoring access requires a personal appeal and re-verification, which creates additional risks and inconveniences for subscribers.

The authorities traditionally justify everything as a struggle against “gray” SIM cards and fraud. At the same time, experts point out that, combined with the expansion of biometric identification, this creates a trend toward total digital control, where more and more of citizens’ everyday activities – from online shopping to mobile communications – are under state control.