Russia wants crypto exchanges and gaming platforms to give FSB direct access to customer data

Russian security services are planning to extend SORM (the System for Operative Investigative Activities) requirements to crypto exchanges and gaming platforms. For high-risk payment operators, the important part is not the buzz around “monitoring” but the mechanics: the proposal would give the FSB round-the-clock remote access to user data, traffic, and payment information inside those services.

1. The plan is to require crypto exchanges and gaming platforms to install SORM, which would give security services automated remote access to user data 24/7. The system can monitor and analyze internet traffic in real time, store metadata and user content, and match IP addresses, logins, social media profiles, and payment data.
2. This is a step beyond earlier Russian proposals. In 2022, security services argued that crypto exchanges should be obliged to hand over customer information, saying that games have social-network features and can be used to spread extremist ideology.
3. Until now, the discussion was about transferring customer data on request. The current plans go further: they would integrate SORM hardware directly into the infrastructure of crypto exchanges.
4. The source links the move to a recently adopted cryptocurrency bill in Russia. The immediate implication is tighter monitoring of licensed crypto exchanges, with customer anonymity placed under direct pressure.