Sanctions hit smartphones: why Russians are losing access to Apple ID
12 February 15:23
Apple has begun to massively restrict purchases, subscriptions, and other transactions for Russian users whose personal data fully or partially matches the information on the sanctions lists of the US government and other states. This was reported by The Moscow Times, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
This is not just about individual transactions — some users are having problems accessing their Apple ID and key ecosystem services.
What exactly is happening
Russian owners of iPhones and other Apple devices are reporting systemic restrictions:
- a ban on purchases in the App Store;
- inability to sign up for or renew subscriptions;
- problems accessing Game Center, games, and iCloud;
- in some cases, Apple ID profiles being blocked or deleted.
Users receive standard messages from the company stating that the operation is not possible because their data matches that of individuals under sanctions.
Apple’s position
Apple explains these actions as an obligation to comply with applicable laws and regulations. The company is required to verify users and financial transactions for compliance with sanctions regimes.
According to The Moscow Times, while such blocks were previously rare, they have now become widespread.
Why this affects thousands of people
It is estimated that the problem could affect tens of thousands of Russian users. The reason is not necessarily personal sanctions, but partial data matches:
- first and last name;
- date of birth;
- other identifying parameters.
Many users have seen a message in their account settings requiring them to undergo additional identity verification and upload a photo of their passport. Without this, access to paid and some free services is restricted.
Apple’s actions come amid tightening digital and technological restrictions for Russians following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Many Western companies have either left the Russian market or significantly reduced their presence, leaving only a minimal set of services.
At the same time, state pressure on internet services is increasing within Russia. This week, it became known that Roskomnadzor, another digital service popular among Russians, had begun to slow down Telegram.
The situation with Apple could set a precedent for other IT companies
The situation with Apple could set a precedent for other global IT companies that maintain a formal presence in Russia. Mass checks against sanctions lists increase the risk of accidental blocking and the gradual displacement of users from international digital ecosystems.
