Russia will consider ways to tighten control of China's Internet

Illustration photo: AP

“In terms of regulation, we have a lot in common with our Chinese partners: China follows the principle that all cross-border and international corporations must comply with local laws,” he said at the 6th World Internet Conference in China. “We try to achieve this in many ways, but the regulations in Russia are more lenient. We work on the principle of a ‘white list’: everything that is not prohibited is allowed.”

According to Zharov, Russian specialists have a lot to learn from their Chinese colleagues. “That is why we welcome contacts at the management level and between technical specialists,” he stressed.

The head of Roskomnadzor also reminded that the Internet is becoming increasingly complex with the use of more sophisticated technologies. “Knowledge becomes a treasure, which is why it is so important for technical experts to exchange these treasures with each other,” Zharov pointed out.

Penalties for violating Internet management regulations

Russian authorities plan to introduce fines rather than preventive measures for violations of Internet regulations, Zharov said.

“Russia is currently discussing a bill that would impose quite serious fines on companies that do not comply with Internet regulations,” he noted. “I think this is a very serious and effective step. A few years ago, we said that violators should be blocked, but now I think there is a more democratic and effective way than economic sanctions: this way we can ensure that the law is followed.”

According to Zharov, in the context of rapid changes in the Internet sphere, with the emergence of 5G networks and new forms of encryption, the new goal of government agencies is to achieve full compliance with local regulations. “This concerns both Russia and the rest of the world,” he stressed.

“The deeper we go into virtual technology, the harder it is to maintain a balance between opportunities and security. People need to comply with local laws, and those who do not comply must be punished, through fines or other measures,” Zharov pointed out.

He noted that the World Internet Conference provides an opportunity to discuss security issues. “I believe that these issues must be managed at the international level. The rules must be the same for everyone: countries, businesses, citizens,” he concluded.

The 5th World Internet Conference was held in Wuzhen, China from October 20-22, with the participation of more than 1,500 representatives of government, business and academia, international organizations, experts and public associations. Delegates attending the forum discussed cybersecurity issues, aspects of the development of the global digital economy, new Internet technologies and international cooperation in the field of big data.