Russia expands border checks of electronic devices

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Russia has updated its border legislation granting expanded authority to border officials to inspect electronic devices belonging to travelers entering or leaving the country.

Under the revised rules, authorities are permitted to examine mobile phones, laptops and other devices when there are grounds related to security considerations. The measures are not applied universally but are used in cases where suspicion of violations or security concerns arise.

According to the changes, refusal to comply with lawful inspection requests may result in administrative penalties, including fines ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 rubles or administrative arrest for up to 15 days.

Officials say the updated framework is aimed at strengthening efforts to counter terrorism, extremism and illegal migration. Travelers are advised to take into account the content stored on their devices when crossing the border.