A Moscow court has fined Google 7.2bn roubles ($98m; £73m) for repeated failure to delete content deemed illegal in Russia.
Later on Friday, the court also fined Facebook-Meta Platforms of 2 billion roubles ($27.15 million) on the same grounds.
Russia’s communication watchdog said that Facebook and Instagram failed to remove 2,000 pieces that violate Russian laws whereas Google keeps 2,600 pieces of banned content.
Why Russia is so Stringent?
Russia has ordered companies to delete posts promoting drug abuse and dangerous information about homemade weapons and explosives and other terrorist related posts.
This is not Google’s first brush with Russian authorities over content laws. In May, Russia’s media watchdog threatened to slow down the speed of Google if it failed to delete 26,000 unlawful content, which it said It was related to drugs, violence and extremism.
Earlier this week, Twitter was also fined with 3 million rouble for similar charges.
Websites like LinkedIn and Dailymotion have already been blocked for refusing to co-operate with authorities.
New Law of Russia
Earlier this year, Russia also introduced a new law requiring all new smartphones, computers and smart devices sold in the country to be pre-installed with Russian-made software and apps.
Google’s reply
Google told AFP news agency that it would study the court ruling before deciding on further steps.
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