Russia's iPhone Surge Amid Security Concerns

Despite a ban on certain officials using Apple devices due to security concerns, Russian government purchases of iPhones in the first three quarters of 2023 increased fourfold. The rise came amid allegations of espionage. Demand for iPhones remains high despite halted exports and high prices.

Purchases of iPhones by the Russian government have surged fourfold from January to September 2023, according to a report by Vedomosti, despite restrictions on officials using these devices. The increase follows security concerns raised by the Federal Security Service (FSB) regarding potential espionage.

Last year, Kommersant reported that Kremlin officials were advised to avoid iPhones ahead of the 2024 presidential elections due to vulnerabilities. Vedomosti cited a Tenderplan representative claiming contracts for iPhones reached 6.9 million roubles, compared to 1.6 million roubles the previous year. Reuters could not verify these figures independently.

In response to the espionage claims, Russia's digital ministry banned iPhones for work purposes. Nonetheless, with Apple halting exports over the Ukraine conflict, iPhones remain in demand in Russia, with consumers resorting to grey imports to secure the devices.

(With inputs from agencies.)