Why Is LinkedIn Banned in Russia & How to Access It?

LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that connects individuals and businesses worldwide. It allows users to create profiles, share their professional experiences, and build connections within their industry. With millions of users, LinkedIn has become an essential tool for job seekers, recruiters, and professionals looking to expand their networks.

However, LinkedIn is banned in Russia, making it inaccessible to users within the country. This restriction has raised questions about the reasons behind the ban and how individuals in Russia can still access the platform. In the following sections, we will explore why LinkedIn is banned in Russia and provide solutions for accessing it despite the restrictions.

Why Did Russia Block LinkedIn?

Russia's decision to block LinkedIn in 2016 was a significant move that impacted many professionals and businesses. The ban was the result of a series of events and regulatory decisions aimed at enforcing data protection laws within the country. Here are the main causes behind this action:

  • Violation of Data Localization Laws: Russia introduced laws requiring companies to store the personal data of Russian citizens on servers located within the country. LinkedIn failed to comply with these regulations, leading to its ban.
  • Legal Disputes: LinkedIn faced legal challenges in Russian courts over its data storage practices. The courts ruled against LinkedIn, reinforcing the decision to block the platform.
  • Government Surveillance Concerns: The Russian government has been increasingly focused on monitoring and controlling internet activity. LinkedIn's non-compliance with local data storage laws raised concerns about the government's ability to surveil user data.
  • Precedent for Other Tech Companies: By blocking LinkedIn, Russia aimed to set an example for other international tech companies, emphasizing the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations.

How to Access LinkedIn in Russia in 3 steps

1) Download and install a VPN app: Choose a reliable VPN app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Follow the installation instructions to set it up on your device.

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2) Open the VPN app and select a server: Launch the VPN app and browse through the list of available servers. Select a server located in a country where LinkedIn is not blocked like the United States, Canada, or Germany.

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3) Connect to the VPN and access LinkedIn: Once you've selected a server, click the connect button. After the VPN establishes a connection, open your web browser and visit LinkedIn to enjoy unrestricted access.

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What Do VPNs Do?

VPNs allow users to bypass geo-restrictions by masking their IP address and routing their internet traffic through servers in different locations. This makes it appear as though the user is accessing the internet from a different country, enabling access to content that is otherwise restricted based on geographic location. For instance, users in Russia can connect to a server in the United States to access LinkedIn, which is banned in their country.

Tips for Accessing LinkedIn in Russia

For individuals in Russia looking to access LinkedIn despite the ban, here are some helpful tips to navigate the restrictions:

  • Use a reputable VPN: A reliable VPN can help you bypass geo-restrictions. For instance, VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy, the most downloaded VPN app of 2023 - Data.ai, is a great option.
  • Choose the right server location: When using a VPN, select a server in a country where LinkedIn is not blocked, such as the United States, Canada, or Germany.
  • Keep your VPN updated: Regularly update your VPN app to ensure you have the latest security features and access to new servers.
  • Clear your browser cache: Before accessing LinkedIn, clear your browser cache to remove any stored data that might reveal your actual location.
  • Use incognito mode: Access LinkedIn in your browser's incognito or private mode to prevent your browsing history from being tracked.

What Happens If I Use LinkedIn in Russia?

If you attempt to use LinkedIn in Russia without any workarounds, you will encounter a block that prevents you from accessing the platform. This is due to the Russian government's enforcement of data localization laws, which LinkedIn has not complied with, resulting in the platform being banned within the country.

For professionals in Russia, this restriction means missing out on valuable networking opportunities, job postings, and industry updates that LinkedIn provides. The inability to access LinkedIn can hinder career growth and limit connections with international colleagues and businesses.

Use VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy to Access LinkedIn!

Using VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy, you can easily access LinkedIn in Russia. Our free plan offers unlimited time, data, and bandwidth, providing you with basic VPN functionality and free servers to bypass geo-restrictions. This makes it an excellent option to try before committing to our premium plans.

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