Russians have already started receiving notifications about a 24-hour internet shutdown.

Russian mobile operators have begun sending subscribers notifications about a 24-hour restriction on mobile internet access upon their return from abroad. This measure, confirmed by two popular operators, is aimed at improving security and combating unauthorized use of SIM cards.

RBC correspondents received messages from operators warning subscribers about a temporary mobile internet shutdown. The restriction will be in effect for 24 hours, but to lift it early, users must authorize themselves via SMS.

"Hello. We would like to inform you that after returning from abroad, your mobile internet access will be restricted for 24 hours. To lift the restriction upon your return, you will receive an SMS from your operator for authorization. However, you will still be able to make calls and use a number of important services," reads the message received by an RBC correspondent.

It is noted that even with restricted access to the mobile internet, subscribers will still be able to make calls and use a number of critical online services, including Gosuslugi, banking apps, VK and Yandex services, and the Ozon and Wildberries marketplaces.

A MegaFon representative confirmed the mailing but declined further comment. Representatives of MTS and VimpelCom (Beeline brand) also declined to comment on the situation.

To shorten the cooling-off period, subscribers must undergo verification: they will receive an SMS with a link to a captcha check, confirming that the user is a human and not an automated bot.

The introduction of a 24-hour "cooling-off period" for Russian SIM cards was previously discussed in the media. As Kommersant reported, the restrictions will apply if the subscriber was roaming internationally or their SIM card was inactive for more than 72 hours. A similar measure is already being applied to foreign SIM cards and, according to sources, is aimed at combating the use of unauthorized SIM cards in drone attacks.

According to Forbes, the idea of ​​introducing a "cooling-off period" for Russian subscribers was proposed by Roskomnadzor. A source close to the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media clarified that the measure might not apply to everyone traveling abroad, but rather to those who "haven't been to Russia in a very long time or whose SIM cards haven't been used in the country before."

Amid the threat of drone attacks, Russian authorities have already resorted to restricting mobile internet service, as witnessed by Moscow residents during the May holidays and in St. Petersburg during the SPIEF. At the same time, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media proposes exempting operators from liability for disconnecting service in the event of a threat of attack, while the FSB may be authorized to demand that operators immediately terminate service to specific numbers without a court order for security reasons.