Russia allows telecom operators to cut communications at Federal Security Service request

By Kanyshai Butun

ISTANBUL (AA) — Russian telecom operators will be allowed to disconnect communications at the request of the Federal Security Service (FSB) under a law approved by the State Duma on Tuesday in its third and final reading.

Under the legislation, communications operators will not be held liable for failing to fulfill or improperly fulfilling obligations under service agreements if they act in accordance with a request from the FSB, RBC reported, citing the draft federal law.

According to the explanatory note, the measure is intended to ensure security in areas under the responsibility of the FSB and to counter terrorism.

The law will take effect 10 days after its official publication if Russian President Vladimir Putin signs the bill.