Russian government bans iPhones and gives employees 11 days to drop the device: ‘Throw it away’

The measure applies to authorities involved in preparing for the 2024 presidential elections; “Smartphones should not be used for official business,” says the Kremlin spokesman.

Sputnik/Sergey Gunev/The Kremlin via ReutersKremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov

a The Kremlin Officials involved in preparations for the 2024 presidential elections recommended in Russia The newspaper reported that they were not allowed to use the iPhone, citing concerns that the devices could be used for espionage.KommersantFirst Deputy Minister Sergei Kiriyenko urged officials to change their phone numbers by April 1. “It’s all over for the iPhone: either throw it away, or give it to the children. “Everyone will have to do this in March,” Kommersant said, citing one of the participants. Asked on Monday about the matter, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he could not confirm the news, but said. “Smartphones should not be used for official business. Any smartphone has a more or less transparent engine, no matter what operating system it has – Android or IOS. Naturally, they are not used for official purposes,” Peskov said. Apple did not comment on the matter. Kommersant newspaper reported that the Kremlin may provide other devices to replace iPhones. Russian President Vladimir PutinHe does not have a smartphone, however, he does use the internet from time to time.