The Federal Security Service of Russia (FSB) announced that it received nearly 150,000 reports from citizens last year about one another, which critics say is reminiscent of the atmosphere during the communist regime. This alarming trend highlights the extent to which citizens are encouraged or feel compelled to report on activities they perceive as suspicious. The FSB, a successor to the KGB, claims that the influx of calls led to the criminal prosecution of 18 individuals for alleged terrorism or sabotage against Ukraine, resulting in lengthy prison sentences for those accused of damaging transport and military infrastructure.

In 2022, the FSB's hotline alone received 68,785 calls, along with 77,772 calls to its regional offices, highlighting a significant overall increase in citizen reports. Among these, nearly 16,000 were deemed crucial for investigations, prompting the initiation of 20 criminal cases related to false reporting. This situation underscores the FSB's commitment to maintaining strict control and surveillance following the renewed invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, as the Russian government intensifies repressions against opposition voices and stifles any public dissent or criticism of the war.

This environment of heightened surveillance and fear represents a serious deterioration of civil liberties within Russia. Citizens are increasingly wary of expressing their opinions, as any criticism of the military actions in Ukraine could lead to severe repercussions. The data provided by the FSB emphasizes a troubling shift toward a climate of mistrust and hostility among citizens, reminiscent of the practices of the Soviet era, where informing on neighbors was commonplace and often encouraged by the authorities.