Russia to ban smartphones in the military over social media fears

Last week the State Duma, the lower house of Russian parliament, approved a bill banning military personnel from using smartphones on duty.

As reported by AP, the new law formalizes restrictions earlier ordered by the Defense Ministry. Servicemen will no longer be allowed to post photos, videos and information about themselves, other soldiers and their relatives on the Internet.

Smartphones and social media had been used by servicemen and their relatives to publish stories about Russian soldiers’ involvement in Eastern Ukraine and in Syria, creating embarrassment for the Russian authorities.

The new law is pending approval from the upper house of parliament before being signed by President Vladimir Putin.