Russia demands Google halt YouTube ads of illegal mass events

MOSCOW, Aug 12 (PRIME) -- The Russian communications service has demanded Google stop adverting unsanctioned mass events on the company’s video hosting YouTube, the authority said on August 11.

“According to available information, a number of entities with YouTube channels acquire advertising tools from YouTube, such as push notifications, in order to distribute information about unsanctioned illegal mass events, comprising those targeted at sabotaging federal and regional elections,” the watchdog said in a statement.

Push notifications were sent to users that are not subscribed to YouTube channels of such entities, the authority said.

“If Google fails to take measures, the Russian Federation will understand such behavior as interference in the sovereign affairs of the state as well as a malicious act and obstruction of democratic elections in Russia, keeping the right to respond respectively, it is underlined in the letter,” the watchdog said.

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