Legal Challenges Surrounding Participation of Big Tech Companies in the Russian Social Networking Market

Abstract

This article outlines the regulatory landscape surrounding the participation of global technological companies in the Russian social network market. These companies include Alphabet (Google), Meta/ Facebook,1 X (former Twitter),2 Apple, Microsoft and Amazon. However, this article primarily concentrates on those that provide computing social network services, i.e., Google, Meta/Facebook and X/Twitter. The author considers a number of topics. Firstly, the Russian law requirements on the mandatory physical presence of foreign companies which provide social networking services in Russia. Secondly, the issues surrounding the storage of personal data in a foreign database or cloud, particularly retention obligation and the cross-border transfer of personal data. Thirdly, obligations for Internet providers with regard to the blocking or deletion of information that violates Russian law. There are many obstacles for Big Tech companies to work in the Russian networking market, including lack of general regulation of these services, information security requirements, restrictions contained in Personal Data Law and Information Law. An analysis of the European and Russian regulation shows that both legal systems contain similar obligations. Furthermore, if relations between EU and Russia were better, it would be beneficial to accept EU rules (such as the Digital Services Act (DSA)) as binding. This could be done by concluding an international agreement that would extend the sphere of application of some of the DSA rules, which are in the mutual interest of both parties. However, in the current political situation this goal is difficult to achieve.