Guidance for extended cellular internet interruption in Crimea shared publicly
In recent times, authorities in Russia have centralized the management of mobile internet outages, primarily due to rising security concerns, particularly in the wake of Ukrainian drone attacks. The government is moving towards designating a single state body to coordinate mobile internet disruptions, replacing the current fragmented process involving multiple regional and security entities.
These outages, which occur frequently and unpredictably across various regions, sometimes lasting hours or even days, have resulted in Russia breaking global records for the highest number of local mobile internet shutdowns recorded in a single month.
To help citizens navigate these interruptions, here are some key precautions:
- Remain Prepared: Be mindful of the possibility of sudden mobile internet outages, especially in regions known to be under frequent threat or drone attacks.
- Alternative Communication Methods: Use offline messaging apps that don’t rely on mobile internet, or landline phones where available.
- Offline Essential Information: Keep emergency contacts and important documents accessible offline.
- Offline Navigation: Since outages impact GPS-dependent services, plan for offline navigation using maps like Yandex Maps, 2GIS, Maps.me, Organic Maps, etc.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated through official announcements and local alerts as shutdowns are usually linked to declared security threats by regional authorities.
- Cash on Hand: Given the possibility of regional disconnection without warning, it's advisable to have cash on hand for payments in case of communication disruptions, as advised by Vladimir Gutenev, a State Duma deputy and chairman of the Industry and Trade Committee.
- Save Taxi Numbers: In case of mobile internet outage, it's recommended to save taxi numbers in advance.
- Power Bank: Keep a charged power bank, especially while traveling.
- Wi-Fi Availability: Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and at new transport stops in Yalta, Simferopol, Yevpatoria, on the South Coast.
- Password Sharing: Don't hesitate to ask for the password in a nearby establishment - they'll help in an emergency.
- Secure Wi-Fi: Prefer Wi-Fi in establishments (cafes, hotels) over open anonymous networks during outages, as they can be dangerous.
- Patience: If no immediate response, try again after a few minutes.
It's also suggested to withdraw an amount "just in case" as internet outages often disable terminals in stores, cafes, and transport. However, it's important to note that false information about scheduled mobile connection shutdowns has been circulated on social media and messengers, so always verify information from reliable sources.
By federal decree, mobile internet can be shut down in southern Russia and Crimea for several hours or days to counter attacks and prevent enemy drone control. However, voice calls and SMS work stably via cellular channels during these outages. The region's Department of Information and Communications has officially denied reports of scheduled shutdowns.
In summary, the Russian government is centralizing and coordinating internet shutdowns for security reasons, and citizens in affected regions are implicitly advised to prepare for intermittent connectivity by ensuring access to offline resources and alternative communication options during these outages.
- Despite the centralization of mobile internet disruptions by the Russian government due to security concerns, the rising popularity of technology has led to the development of offline messaging apps and GPS maps, which can be useful for citizens during these outages.
- In the realm of sports, one might argue that preparing for and adapting to unexpected disruptions, such as mobile internet outages, mirrors the resilience and strategy required in sports, where plans can quickly change and players must react accordingly.
