‘We’re back in the Stone Age’: Russia’s spies turn off the internet
Financial Times 2026-06-11 04:00:38
Context: Russia has been experiencing a series of internet shutdowns due to cyberattacks and other security concerns, forcing the country to rely on alternative methods of communication and navigation. The shutdowns have had a significant impact on the daily lives of Russians, who are used to being one of the most online nations in the world. As a result, many are having to resort to old-fashioned methods of communication and navigation.
Key Facts
- The internet in several Russian regions was shut down for the second time in a week due to a cyberattack, with hackers targeting the country's critical infrastructure, including its power grid and transportation systems. The shutdowns have made many Russians resort to using cash instead of digital payments, with some even using paper maps to navigate the city instead of relying on their smartphones. The internet shutdowns have also led to a surge in the use of pet cameras, which are being used to monitor homes and businesses remotely.
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