Russia’s Bestchange.ru, a popular cryptocurrency exchange monitoring website, has been blocked once again by the country’s Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor). The platform, known for helping users find the best exchange rates for cryptocurrencies and electronic money, announced the block via Facebook, marking the third such action since 2017.
Why Was Bestchange.ru Blocked?
Roskomnadzor’s Justification
Bestchange.ru and similar cryptocurrency-related websites have faced scrutiny for “mentioning Bitcoin,” which Roskomnadzor considers prohibited under Russian federal laws.
- Legal Rationale: Courts have ruled that information about Bitcoin contradicts Russian regulations, particularly concerning financial and anti-money laundering laws.
- Prosecutorial Actions: Regional prosecutors have repeatedly sued to block the website, labeling its content as a violation of the legal framework.
A History of Blocks and Unblocks
First Block (2017)
- Action Taken: Bestchange.ru was blocked by Roskomnadzor, citing violations of federal law.
- Outcome: The block was canceled in 2018, allowing the site to resume operations.
Second Block (2022)
- Court Order: In March, the Kuibyshevsky District Court of Omsk issued a ruling to block the site alongside other cryptocurrency platforms.
- Outcome: The block was reversed in May 2022, after legal challenges by Bestchange.ru.
Third Block (2024)
- Current Situation: Bestchange.ru announced its domain was blocked again, as regional prosecutors continue their crackdown on Bitcoin-related content.
Bestchange.ru’s Response
Despite repeated blocks, Bestchange.ru remains committed to serving its users:
- Public Announcement: On Facebook, the platform assured users it was working on unblocking the domain, although the process could take time.
- Service Continuity: The site has been operational since 2007, providing a platform to compare exchange rates for cryptocurrencies, electronic payments, and banking services.
Cryptocurrency in Russia: A Complicated Relationship
1. Legal Ambiguity
Russia’s approach to cryptocurrencies has been inconsistent:
- Bitcoin Legality: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are not explicitly banned but face heavy regulation.
- Prohibited Information: Courts often classify Bitcoin-related information as illegal under federal financial laws.
2. Regulatory Crackdowns
Roskomnadzor has targeted multiple cryptocurrency websites over the years, blocking platforms that facilitate crypto trading or promote blockchain technology.
The Broader Impact on Cryptocurrency in Russia
1. Challenges for Crypto Platforms
- Legal Uncertainty: Crypto businesses face legal risks due to vague regulations.
- Operational Interruptions: Frequent blocks and legal battles disrupt services and erode user trust.
2. User Adaptation
Russian crypto enthusiasts have found ways to bypass blocks, using tools like:
- VPNs: To access restricted platforms.
- Alternative Domains: Many websites mirror their services on new domains to maintain accessibility.
FAQs About Bestchange.ru and Roskomnadzor
Why was Bestchange.ru blocked?
Roskomnadzor blocked Bestchange.ru for the third time, citing prohibited information about Bitcoin that allegedly violates Russian federal laws.
What services does Bestchange.ru offer?
Bestchange.ru helps users compare exchange rates for cryptocurrencies, electronic payments, and internet banking services.
How does Bestchange.ru plan to address the block?
The platform is exploring ways to unblock its domain while continuing to serve users through alternative methods.
Is Bitcoin illegal in Russia?
Bitcoin is not explicitly banned but faces heavy regulation, with certain types of information about it deemed illegal.
How can Russian users access blocked crypto websites?
Users often rely on VPNs and alternative domains to bypass restrictions imposed by Roskomnadzor.
Conclusion: A Persistent Struggle for Crypto Freedom
The repeated blocking of Bestchange.ru by Roskomnadzor highlights the ongoing tensions between cryptocurrency innovation and regulatory control in Russia. Despite legal challenges, platforms like Bestchange.ru remain resilient, finding ways to serve users while navigating an unpredictable regulatory environment.
As cryptocurrencies grow in popularity, the clash between decentralization and state oversight is likely to continue, shaping the future of digital finance in Russia and beyond.
For more updates on cryptocurrency regulation and its global impact, explore our article on latest news, where we cover critical developments shaping the blockchain ecosystem.
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