Apple secretly removes dozens of VPN apps from App Store in Russia

Official reports suggest Apple has removed 25 VPN apps from its App Store in Russia this Summer. Research however shows that the number of discarded VPN apps in this time period is closer to 60.

It's one of the key findings of a study performed by GreatFire, a nonprofit interest group that strives for freedom of online information and helps Chinese internet users to circumvent censorship that is imposed by the government.

Data from Roskomnadzor, Russia’s communications regulator, and the App Store Monitor highlights there’s a huge difference in the number of removed VPN apps.

According to Russia communications watchdog, Apple has expelled 25 VPN apps between early July and mid-September. Researchers at GreatFire say it’s closer to 60, bringing the total number of unavailable VPN apps to 98, such as ExpressVPN and CyberGhost.

“More than 20% of the VPN apps tested were quietly removed without public acknowledgment, undermining transparency in the Russia App Store,” the platform says. Researchers point out that the removals were concentrated on specific dates, suggesting Apple did exactly what Roskomnadzor demanded.

Benjamin Ismail, Director of the App Censorship Project at GreatFire, states that the silent removal of 60 VPN apps from Apple’s App Store in Russia is a ‘direct threat to digital freedom and privacy’.

“By unilaterally restricting access to these essential tools without transparency or due process, Apple is complicit in enabling government censorship. We demand that Apple uphold its commitment to human rights and provide a clear explanation for these actions,” Ismail says in a statement.

Evan Greer, Director of the nonprofit advocacy group Fight for the Future, concurs with Ismail, stating: “VPNs are lifelines for journalists, activists, and everyday citizens striving to access information and communicate securely. Apple’s actions not only undermine the privacy and security of millions but also set a dangerous precedent for how tech companies may collaborate with authoritarian regimes. It’s imperative that Apple reverses this course and stands up for the rights of its users.”

GreatFire calls for full transparency from both Roskomnadzor and Apple regarding the number of VPN apps that have been removed. In addition, Apple should do what it can to reinstate as many VPN apps as possible.

“Transparent disclosure of app removal policies and actions is essential to uphold digital rights and inform users about changes that impact their access to secure communication tools. As digital censorship becomes increasingly sophisticated, stakeholders must advocate for openness to ensure that users are not left unaware of restrictions affecting their online freedoms,” researchers conclude.