Russia Forces Google Play, iTunes To Delete LinkedIn
Athena DeeThe LinkedIn app is now no longer downloadable on all devices within Russia. Just last November, it was mandated to keep every piece of information acquired from Russian citizens within the said country's borders.
According to The New York Times, this decision by the Russian Government has put Google and Apple in a very difficult position, especially since both are strong proponents of free speech and open Internet policies. "Apps are the new choke point of free expression," said New America's Rebecca MacKinnon.
The spokesperson for LinkedIn, Nicole Leverich, told the media that the company is very "disappointed" with Russia's decision to block the service. "It denies access to our members in Russia and the companies that use LinkedIn to grow their businesses," she said.
Acquired by Microsoft just last year, LinkedIn is the largest services, so far, to fall victim to Russia's 2014 law. This new rift is expected to add fire to the tension between Russia and the United States, especially after the former was recently accused to have mounted espionage that swayed the US presidential election. The Kremlin was reportedly behind the cyber attack against Hillary Clinton and that it showed its clear preference for a Donald Trump presidency.
Apple had already confirmed that it was contact by Russia regarding the removal of LinkedIn last month. Apple did not give any further details regarding the matter, but it also confirmed that the Chinese Government also asked it to block The New York Times app. Google, on the other hand, has not given any confirmation, but it did give a statement about adhering to local laws in the nations that it operates.
Robert McDowell, a former member of the Federal Communications Commission, said that the restriction of the Internet is "a one-way ratchet with speech control getting tighter." "Internet free speech and Internet freedom are increasingly under attack all over the globe, and not just from authoritarian regimes," he said.
most read
more stories from News
Join the reunion of iPhone and Pixel at Coachella in the #BestPhonesForever ad campaign. Experience the excitement!
ernest hamiltonHuawei challenges Apple with the new Pura 70 amid chip scrutiny. Explore the details of their fresh lineup in China.
ernest hamiltonLearn about Google's bold move in merging its Android and Hardware teams, emphasizing AI integration. Read more!
ernest hamiltonExplore Samsung's latest budget offering, the Galaxy A35 5G! Discover how this new phone delivers quality without compromise.
ernest hamiltonGet ready for an epic showdown as 'Street Fighter: Duel' partners with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in an exciting collaboration! Join the action now!
ernest hamiltonExplore the world of classic gaming with Delta, the iOS Game Boy emulator that's here to stay, but still probable. Dive into nostalgia now!
ernest hamiltonStay secure with Samsung's April 2024 Security Patch, now available for select Galaxy devices. Update yours today!
ernest hamiltonGet a sneak peek at iOS 17.5 Beta 2! Explore the exciting new features coming soon to your iPhone.
ernest hamilton