Russia’s government has increasingly utilized digital facial recognition surveillance to monitor protestors, opposition members, and draft evaders. The “State of Surveillance” report by RKS Global highlights the legal ambiguity and lack of federal regulation surrounding this technology, leading to privacy concerns and data misuse. Moscow’s Unified Data Storage and Processing Center collects extensive video data, aiding police investigations.
The Unified Biometrics System Law mandates the transfer of digital biometric data to state control. Plans are underway to expand digital surveillance nationwide, including in public schools and transport hubs, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing its digital surveillance capabilities despite transparency issues.
