The changes include expanded monitoring of “atypical” peer-to-peer transactions, direct regulator access to payment system data, and faster information sharing between government agencies.
Formally, Russia’s Central Bank presents these steps as technical improvements. In practice, the state is expanding its ability to conduct total surveillance of private finances. Banks will be allowed to block transactions for up to two days. The Central Bank will also transfer data on all electronic money operations to tax authorities and, starting in March 2026, cross-check them against cybercrime databases.
These measures are particularly dangerous for residents of territories temporarily occupied by Russia. Unlike Russian citizens, people in the occupied Ukrainian territories will face even stricter control.
“Any transfer, even between family members, can be labeled suspicious solely because the recipient has Ukrainian origin," the Center noted.
"Under these conditions, financial control becomes not a technical measure but a mechanism of constant surveillance, inspections, and pressure by the occupation authorities.”
It was reported that in 2017 Russia’s State Duma approved a bill that effectively banned money transfers to Ukraine through foreign payment systems.