Mobile Network Disruptions through May 10
Experiencing Issues with Communication, ATMs, and Markets in Moscow and its Surrounding Regions: Strategies to Evade Complications
Prepare yourself for disconnected calls and limited internet access from May 7 through May 10! I've received warnings from Yandex, my bank, and my service provider about potential interruptions to mobile internet service. The reason? Celebrations for the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War!
Experts explain that these temporary mobile internet blackouts are a precautionary measure for ensuring public safety during big events and the arrival of foreign delegations. Risks from drones (UAVs) are also being addressed.
Living without the internet for a few days? Piece of cake! But when we experience restrictions, it's eye-opening to realize how reliant we are on the online world. Imagine being without messaging apps, search engines, phone and card payments, taxi and car-sharing services, electric scooter rentals, and bank apps!
The troubles aren't limited to Moscow. Residents in Tula, Yaroslavl, Tver, Saransk, and Kursk are also affected. With disrupted terminals, public transport validators, online displays, ATMs, and delivery services, it's a whole new ball game!
Need to stay informed? Here are the lowdown on operators, banks, taxis, marketplaces, and expert recommendations:
OPERATORSIgor Bederov, the big boss at the "Internet-Search" company, reports that major operators like MTS, "Beeline", "MegaFon", Yota, "Tele2" have confirmed mobile internet restrictions. While voice calls and SMS remain functioning, access to 4G/5G networks is limited. Beeline suggests using Wi-Fi and VoLTE functions for calls.
MTS Operator Statement: "Gearing up for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Moscow, mobile internet might face disruptions from May 7 to 9. Apologies for any inconvenience. We advise using Wi-Fi."
BANKS
Sberbank, VTB, and the System of Fast Payments have issued warnings about potential malfunctions in banking apps, terminals, and ATMs. Expect difficulties with money transfers or QR code payments.
Sberbank's statement advises using Wi-Fi or retrying operations later if you face trouble accessing banking apps.
TAXIS, CAR SHARING, AND RENTALS
Rest assured that car sharing and electric scooter rentals might also face hiccups due to driver's lack of internet access. Plus, traffic and parking restrictions in the heart of Moscow will create logistical headaches. Delivery services have warned that it will be hard to get goods delivered or even food on your doorstep.
MARKETPLACES
Marketplaces recommend connecting to Wi-Fi in advance and shooting QR codes for pickup orders during the mobile internet outages. Alternatively, visit pickup points on another day.
EXPERT RECOMMENDATIONS
- Stock up on maps for seamless navigation without mobile internet.
- "Moscow Transport" advises users to load up their "Troika" card to avoid any issues with topping up due to internet outages.
- Withdraw enough cash from an ATM. With restrictions, payment terminals might not work.
- Best to stock up on food and medications in advance.
- Go Wi-Fi to stick together when the mobile internet is down.
Curious about the ace up Russia's sleeve? Don't miss out on these related reads:
Russians warned about mobile internet disruptions from May 7 to 9: possible outages
"Stranded on the tarmac for five hours, at least the coffee is hot": The chaos gripping Russian airports as flights get canceled and rescheduled
Will Ukraine Dare to Attack the Victory Parade: And How Russia Fights Mass Drone Attacks
[1] Victory Day 2025: Temporary Internet Restrictions to Ensure Safety and Order, Russian Officials Confirm, [Russian online newspaper][2] Ukraine Boosts Drone Strikes Against Russia Ahead of Victory Day, [International defense magazine][3] Victory Day 2025: The Kremlin and the Threat of Western Overreaction, [Political analysis website][4] Russian Airports Legacy of Canceled Flights and Long Lines, [Travel news platform][5] Russian Countermeasures Against Mass Drone Attacks:capabilities and weaknesses, [Journal of Conflict and Security Studies]
Technology and politics intersect during the upcoming celebration for the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, as major operators like MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Yota, Tele2 have confirmed mobile internet restrictions due to public safety concerns and the arrival of foreign delegations (technology, politics).
As preventative measures, banks like Sberbank, VTB, and the System of Fast Payments have warned about potential malfunctions in banking apps, terminals, and ATMs, highlighting our reliance on online services in general-news.
