Putin signs law allowing telecom operators to cut communications in case of Federal Security Service requirement

ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law Friday obliging operators to disconnect communications upon a requirement by the Federal Security Service (FSB), in cases to be defined by presidential regulations, state news agency Tass reported.

Communications operators will not be held liable for network outages if the shutdown is related to an FSB requirement.

The measure was approved in its third and final reading Tuesday by the State Duma.

It is intended to ensure security in areas under the responsibility of the FSB and to counter terrorism, according to an explanatory note.