Russia’s Digital Development Ministry plans to roll out a new type of SIM card specifically designed for children, state media reported on Wednesday. The initiative seeks to enhance online safety, improve parental controls, and allow location tracking without requiring a court order, according to Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadayev.
Enhanced Parental Controls and Location Access
Speaking at a forum organized by the volunteer search-and-rescue group LizaAlert, Shadayev said the “children’s SIM cards” will include internet traffic filters and restrictions on certain online services. Parents will be able to access their child’s geolocation data directly through approved channels.
Protecting Children Under 14
Shadayev first introduced the concept in August, proposing SIM cards for minors under 14 with limits on services such as social media logins. The goal, he said, is to strengthen protection for young users navigating the digital environment.
Launch Date Yet to Be Announced
While the exact launch date has not been disclosed, several Russian mobile operators already provide child-friendly plans with safeguards against spam, fraud, and excessive internet use. The new government-backed SIM cards aim to unify and expand such protections nationwide.
Extension to Senior Citizens
The initiative will also include senior citizens, allowing them to name a trusted contact who can access their location data through Russia’s public services portal, Gosuslugi. Officials say the measure could significantly speed up emergency response efforts.
