The Ministry of Digital Development may bring back inspections of telecom operators — and this could seriously change the rules of the game in the market.
There is currently a moratorium in effect until 2030, due to which scheduled inspections are not actually carried out. In the telecommunications sector, this has led to a paradox: formally, the requirements exist, but it is almost impossible to verify their implementation.
The main problem is the SORM system. This is equipment that gives law enforcement agencies access to calls, Internet traffic and other data. By law, operators are required to install it, but in practice it is difficult to control.
According to sources, some companies have found a loophole: they open a new legal entity, work without SORM, then close and restart. If the moratorium is lifted, they want to stop this scheme — inspections will be able to be carried out in the first year of operation.
Moreover, a strict option is being discussed: without an installed SORM, the operator will not be able to enter the market at all. That is, the presence of the system may become a prerequisite for starting a business.
But the changes do not end there. The Ministry of Digital Development is simultaneously preparing a large-scale reform of the industry:
- Instead of 17 licenses, only three may be left.
- Requirements for capital will be introduced (up to 100 million rubles for large players).
- Operators will be required to cover up to 90% of settlements.
- Control over virtual operators and "pocket" networks will be strengthened.
A ban on working in the field of communications for individual entrepreneurs and new financial obligations for companies are also being discussed.
There are no final decisions yet — negotiations are underway with the largest operators. But the general vector is already clear: they want to make the communications market more rigid, transparent and manageable.
