Russia's new jab at Western social media platforms
Russia’s new Law No. 72-FZ bans all advertising on “undesirable” or extremist platforms, tightening control over Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, with fines looming and influencers turning to VK, RuTube, or crypto to keep earning.
Russian Federal Law No. 72-FZ (7 April 2025), On Amendments to Article 12 of the Federal Law “On Countering Extremist Activity” and to the Federal Law “On Advertising”, comes into force today, pushing Russian influencers further away from Western social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.
The amendments prohibit any form of advertising, including native ads, hidden integrations, or paid content, on internet platforms that are declared “undesirable”, recognized “extremist” or “terrorist”, and are otherwise blocked or restricted under Russian information laws.
Currently, META platforms - including Facebook and Instagram have been officially banned and designated as extremist, while Youtube remains accessible, but heavily throttled and monetization via AdSense has been cut off. Encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram are facing increasing restrictions (such as partial blocking of voice calls), and other services are also under scrutiny.
Fines and possible scenarios
The fines for not complying with the new amendments will reach around €27 for individuals, up to €216 for officials, and up to €5,354 for companies.
While fines for individuals remain modest, many influencers are still likely to seek alternative platforms for paid advertising—both to avoid potential investigations (including tax-related ones) and to explore crypto payments across a mix of platforms such as VKontakte, RuTube, and others.
Since 2022, the median Russian household’s crypto investment has grown by about 150%, rising from 18,000 rubles($210) to 45,000 rubles ($530) in 2024.
