Also Apple could end nin the list of “Big Techs” fined by Russia for handling user data. Despite the sanctions and the substantial exit from the Russian market, in fact, several companies in the Western tech world have been sanctioned for not keeping user data in Russia. The next to get a fine should be Apple.
Russia will sanction Apple for not leaving user data in the country
Apple has long adhered to sanctions on Russia, significantly reducing its activities in the country. Now, the Cupertino company may have to contend with a penalty for failing to keep user data in the country. This penalty has already been applied to Google and other tech companies such as Twitch and Airbnb. The fine, which may or may not be paid, is however small by Apple’s standards.
Google, for example, was fined a total of 340 thousand dollars (also considering the additional penalties linked to the company’s choice not to comply with local laws). At the moment, it is not clear what Apple’s choice will be regarding the possible sanctions coming from Russia. Big Tech companies are minimizing activities in Russia and are unlikely to return to a “pre-war in Ukraine” condition. The fine may therefore never be paid.