Russia: Bill amending Code of Administrative Offences on digital communications, transport logistics, and data management (Federal Law No. 281-FZ) including executive investigatory powers and expansion of regional court jurisdiction enters into force

On 1 September 2025, the Bill amending the Code of Administrative Offences (Federal Law No. 281-FZ) entered into force. The amendments introduce administrative liability for offences related to digital communications, transport logistics, and data management. Under the amendments, Roskomnadzor, the Federal Security Service (FSB), and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) are authorised to investigate and prosecute offences under the new provisions. In addition, regional courts are granted jurisdiction to adjudicate administrative cases concerning illegal VoIP or VPN use (Articles 13.293 and 13.52), denial of lawful data access (Article 19.53), and non-compliance with telecommunications monitoring requirements (Article 13.46).