Apple has halted payment processing for its App Store and other media services in Russia as of April 1, 2026. The move closes a loophole that allowed users to buy VPN apps amid a government crackdown on online speech. Existing subscriptions and purchases remain accessible.
Apple updated its support documentation to state that, effective April 1, 2026, no payments can be processed for App Store purchases or other Apple Media Services in Russia. The change impacts all such services, though iCloud+ subscribers will retain access to their data after plans expire, and prior purchases along with remaining Apple Account funds stay usable until depleted, according to the company's notice reported by 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac first detailed the policy shift. Russian officials told state-aligned outlet RBC that the restriction aims to prevent payments for VPN applications. Reuters reported earlier this week that Russia has intensified its campaign against VPNs, blocking 70 percent more such apps by mid-January compared to late last year, as part of a broader effort to control online information. This follows other measures, including blocks on WhatsApp, throttling of Telegram, and intermittent mobile internet disruptions in Moscow. The actions come as Russia's conflict with Ukraine enters its fifth year, with authorities seeking to limit access to uncensored content via VPNs that bypass restrictions.
