Russian authorities have ordered telecom operators to introduce a 24-hour block of mobile data connectivity and SMS messaging to all SIM cards entering from abroad or reactivated after 72 hours of inactivity. This is a response to increasing UAV and drone attacks by Ukraine.
The Russian Ministry of Digital Development announced that testing of the “cooling-off period” began on November 10th.
Any SIM card that has been inactive for 72 hours, or upon returning from international roaming, is subjected to a 24-hour block.
“SIM cards with mobile internet can be located inside enemy drones and used for their navigation. Temporary blocking will improve protection against drones,” the ministry said in a statement on its Telegram account.
Users are provided with a way to restore network access earlier. The telecommunications company will send an SMS containing information on how to lift the restrictions.
The messages will contain a link to a CAPTCHA test, requiring blocked users to prove that they’re human. They can also opt to call the company and remove the restrictions by verifying their identity over the phone.
“These changes are aimed at ensuring the safety of Russian citizens,” the ministry said.
Both sides have increasingly used drones to strike critical infrastructure and military targets. Deep-penetration drone attacks helped Ukraine disrupt Russian military operations and damage key refineries.
While a SIM block might disrupt some commercially operated systems, it is unlikely that long-range drones rely on civilian networks. They often have other means of navigation, including GPS, inertial, visual, and other systems.
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