According to the Telegram channel "Baza," the demand for services selling virtual SIM cards (eSIMs) from foreign operators has grown by hundreds of thousands of requests in recent weeks. Russians are trying to bypass blocking by launching Internet traffic through servers in another country — the user receives a foreign IP address. Thanks to this, messengers and other resources open without a VPN. However, this method has significant disadvantages, including high cost, unstable operation, and the risk of sudden blocking of the eSIM itself.
High price and communication interruptions
The cost of mobile Internet when using foreign eSIMs is significantly higher than Russian tariffs. According to "Baza," 1 GB of traffic costs 450–900 rubles, 10 GB — 1350–1800 rubles, and 30 GB will cost about three thousand rubles. At the same time, users complain about unstable operation: communication may suddenly disappear for half a day and just as unexpectedly return without explanation.
Risk of blocking from 2025
From 2025, a temporary blocking mode and mandatory online verification upon entry will be introduced in Russia for foreign mobile cards. This means that a purchased eSIM can be blocked at any time without warning. Thus, this method of bypassing blocking, if it works, is unstable and expensive.
