When you hear Roskomnadzor, Russia’s federal agency that controls media, internet, and communications. Also known as Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media, it Roskomnadzor doesn’t just block websites—it enforces crypto bans that ripple across the globe. Since 2022, Roskomnadzor has been the main force behind Russia’s aggressive move to outlaw crypto trading, mining, and even public discussion of digital assets. It’s not about taxes or innovation. It’s about control. And it’s working.
Roskomnadzor crypto actions aren’t isolated. They’re part of a broader push to isolate Russia’s financial system from Western influence. The agency blocks crypto exchanges, shuts down VPNs used to access foreign platforms, and pressures banks to cut ties with crypto-related businesses. It’s not just about stopping transactions—it’s about erasing visibility. If you can’t find it online, you can’t use it. This approach has forced Russian users into peer-to-peer networks, cash-based trades, and anonymous wallets. But even those aren’t safe. Roskomnadzor works with the FSB to track blockchain activity, especially on public ledgers like Bitcoin and Ethereum. They don’t need to know your name—they just need your wallet address.
This isn’t just Russia’s problem. Other countries are watching closely. When Roskomnadzor blocks a crypto exchange, it doesn’t just affect Russians. It sends a signal to regulators in the EU, India, and even the U.S.: if you want to stop crypto, you can. The same tools—IP blocking, domain takedowns, ISP pressure—are being copied elsewhere. Even exchanges that never operated in Russia now worry about being blacklisted. The crypto regulation, government rules that control how digital assets can be bought, sold, or used model Roskomnadzor uses is becoming a blueprint for authoritarian states. And it’s changing how exchanges design their compliance systems. KYC isn’t enough anymore. You need to prove you’re not operating where Roskomnadzor says you can’t.
Meanwhile, the people caught in the middle? They’re adapting. Some use decentralized exchanges. Others trade through Telegram bots or local OTC groups. But every move comes with risk. A single click can trigger a block. A wallet address can get flagged. And once Roskomnadzor marks you, there’s no appeal. The system doesn’t care if you’re just holding Bitcoin. If you’re using it, you’re breaking the law.
What you’ll find in the posts below aren’t just stories about crypto scams or exchange shutdowns. They’re case studies in how governments like Russia’s are rewriting the rules of digital finance. From Upbit’s $34 billion fine to Canada seizing $40 million from TradeOgre, these are all connected. The same pressure that forces exchanges to drop users in Russia is now pushing them to drop users everywhere. Roskomnadzor didn’t create crypto regulation—but it showed the world how far it can go.
Russia doesn't ban all crypto exchanges, but it blocks those that don't comply with its rules. Garantex and Grinex are sanctioned, Binance and Coinbase are unusable, and only state-approved platforms will survive long-term.