Rostelecom denies media information about restrictions on home internet

MOSCOW. March 31 (Interfax) - PJSC Rostelecom has denied information that appeared in the media about the possible introduction of restrictions on home internet with access only to a "white list" of websites.

A number of media outlets previously reported on the possible restriction of home internet operation in the southern regions of Russia and the testing of access to a "white list" of websites.

"Rostelecom categorically denies the information about the possible introduction of restrictions on home internet with access only to a 'white list' of internet resources," the largest Russian operator said in a statement.

The company recalled that temporary restrictions are introduced by authorized bodies only on mobile internet for security purposes - in particular, in the event of a threat from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), because mobile networks can be used for their navigation. The "white list" for mobile internet was introduced so that subscribers could use socially significant online resources even when restrictions have been introduced, the company said.

"Wired internet cannot be used for UAV navigation, therefore restrictions on access to internet resources are not planned," Rostelecom said.