The Intelligence and Security Service of the Republic of Moldova seeks to block several Russian websites to combat disinformation

The Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) has requested that access for users in the Republic of Moldova be restricted to five Russian websites, amid intensified efforts by authorities to control online platforms deemed as sources of disinformation.

Specifically, SIS has asked for the blocking of the following websites: moldova24.online; pwa.moldova24.online; rutube.ru; yandex.ru; dzen.ru.

According to notice no. E/10568 dated 02.10.2024, issued by the Intelligence and Security Service of the Republic of Moldova, internet service providers must block user access to these websites.

This decision comes in the context of increased measures by authorities to limit access to online platforms suspected of spreading disinformation or exerting external influence.

Some operators have already implemented the blocking of these sites immediately.

Authorities have not provided further details, although a similar measure was applied a few days ago.

Since last year, several websites, including Russia Today (RT) and VGTRK, have been blocked as part of Chișinău’s efforts to combat “disinformation” and Russia’s hybrid warfare against Moldova.