Russian online movie streaming services are losing subscribers due to censorship

Russian streaming services have begun to lose their audience due to increased censorship and widespread content editing.

Platforms are cutting or altering scenes that might draw criticism from the authorities, which distorts the plots and lowers the quality of movies and TV shows.

Users are increasingly canceling their paid subscriptions. “I was a loyal subscriber, paying for several services, but now it’s become impossible to watch them,” says a resident of St. Petersburg.

Other viewers note that they are returning to pirated content or switching to free platforms where uncensored full versions are available. “For the first time in 10 years, we’re watching pirated content again,” users say.

According to the study, more than a third of Russians plan to cut back on subscription costs in 2026. One of the reasons cited is the “decreased value” of online streaming services due to censorship restrictions.

At the same time, the growth rate of major platforms’ audiences has already slowed: Yandex’s growth dropped from 29% to 21%, and Sber’s to 2.2%.

Additionally, the Kremlin is seeking to protect critical infrastructure from attacks by Ukraine.

A Russian tanker giant has gone bankrupt due to sanctions.