Apps crashed, ATMs stalled: May holidays took an unexpected turn.
In Moscow and the Moscow region, restrictions have been imposed on mobile internet access, affecting the availability of banking apps and the operation of devices that rely on wireless communication. This was confirmed to RBC by representatives of Sberbank and VTB.
Sberbank explained that their app may be unavailable, and some ATMs and POS terminals may experience issues. Customers are advised to use Wi-Fi or try again later. A similar warning was also sent via SMS to Sberbank clients.
A VTB representative also noted that mobile internet restrictions may lead to difficulties accessing the bank’s app and may cause disruptions in the operation of some devices. However, ATMs located inside bank branches continue to function normally.
The Faster Payments System (FPS) also issued a warning about temporary difficulties. The message stated that from May 7 to 9 in Moscow and the Moscow region, there may be issues with inter-account transfers, payments via FPS, and card acceptance in stores and online.
Videos have surfaced on social media and Telegram channels showing ATMs of various banks malfunctioning. The exact location of the incidents was not disclosed.
Previously, several regions of Russia, including Moscow, experienced outages in the services of mobile operators, messaging apps, and online platforms. On May 5, the Unified State Emergency Prevention and Response System (RSChS) sent a notification to Moscow residents stating that internet restrictions were introduced to ensure safety during the holiday events.
The temporary restriction of mobile internet in Moscow from May 7 to 9 is part of preventive security measures, State Duma Information Policy Committee member Anton Nemkin told TASS. He emphasized that such measures are essential amid a “hybrid war” and are intended to prevent potential threats during mass gatherings.