RuTracker.org, the largest Russian-language torrent tracker, has recently become accessible within Russia. Observations from CyberMeta reveal that the site is now operational without the need for any circumvention tools. Users can seamlessly access the platform on both mobile devices and PCs, although the reasons behind this unexpected unblocking remain unclear.
It is noteworthy that RuTracker.org celebrated its 20th anniversary in September 2024. Despite previous restrictions that required users to employ workarounds to access the site, it boasts an impressive audience of over 14 million active users.
Historical Context of RuTracker.org
The journey of RuTracker.org has been tumultuous, particularly since Roskomnadzor, the Russian federal executive body responsible for overseeing communications, initiated a blockade of the site in 2013. This action was part of the broader implementation of the Internet Intellectual Property Protection Law. In March 2022, rumors circulated suggesting that the agency had lifted the ban on the platform; however, these claims were later debunked as false.
As of the latest updates, RuTracker.org does not appear on Roskomnadzor’s registry, indicating a potential shift in its status. This development raises questions about the regulatory landscape for digital content sharing in Russia.
Related Developments in Digital Media
In a parallel development within the digital media landscape, the video hosting platform RUTUBE has launched a monetization program for content creators. Representatives from the organization announced this initiative in a recent press release, highlighting a “completely new model” for generating revenue from videos. This monetization will take into account views both on the platform itself and across its video network, signaling a significant evolution in how content creators can earn income in the current digital ecosystem.