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How Rising Costs Are Impacting the Underground Economy in Russia

In the winter of 2014, as Russia grappled with a sharp economic downturn, even the informal sectors felt the squeeze. In cities like Murmansk, where Arctic winds bring both freezing temperatures and financial strain, the price of illicit services began to climb. Two-hour encounters with sex workers were reported to cost between 3,000 and 7,000 roubles—roughly $57 to $132 at the time, or £36 to £84. While these figures may seem modest by Western standards, they reflect a broader story of inflation, survival, and the human cost of economic pressure.

Behind these transactions lies a fragile ecosystem. Brothel managers admitted they were “trying to keep prices down”, but found it increasingly difficult. With the national currency devalued and everyday essentials becoming more expensive, sex workers—like everyone else—needed to cover rising living costs. Rent, food, transport: none of these got cheaper, and those in the shadows of the economy had little room to absorb losses.

What makes this moment notable isn’t just the price tags, but what they symbolize. In a climate of sanctions, oil dependency, and currency instability, even the underground market couldn’t remain insulated. Workers in this informal sector, often marginalized and operating without protection, were forced to raise rates simply to survive.

While official statistics rarely capture such nuances, anecdotal evidence from places like Murmansk offers a raw glimpse into how economic tides affect the most vulnerable. The 2014 rate hike wasn’t just about demand—it was about dignity, desperation, and the quiet resilience of those navigating life on the margins.

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Is Samsung Still Operating in Russia?

Despite common misconceptions, Samsung devices are not banned in Russia under current legislation. There has been no legal restriction imposed by Russian authorities that prohibits the sale or use of Samsung products in the country. However, the availability of new Samsung devices has significantly dropped due to decisions made by the company itself, not local laws.

Earlier this month, Samsung announced it would halt shipments of its electronics to Russia, citing ongoing geopolitical developments as the primary reason. This move aligns with actions taken by other global technology firms in response to the complex international situation. While stores may still sell existing stock, no new shipments mean supplies are dwindling over time.

It's important to note that this decision is entirely separate from any court rulings or legal judgments within Russia. The company’s withdrawal is strategic and voluntary, driven by broader economic and ethical considerations rather than regulatory enforcement. Consumers in Russia can still legally purchase and use Samsung devices where available, and after-sales services may continue through local partners, though support could be limited over time.

For now, Samsung hasn’t completely closed its operations in the region, but the absence of new inventory signals a de facto reduction in presence. Customers looking to upgrade or buy new flagship models may find it increasingly difficult, pushing some toward alternative brands that remain actively supplied.

While the door isn’t officially closed, Samsung’s footprint in Russia has undeniably shrunk. The brand remains legally permitted, but practically less accessible.

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Is Using a VPN Legal in Russia?

In short, using a VPN is not currently illegal in Russia. However, the situation is more complicated than a simple yes or no. While the Russian government hasn't outright banned virtual private networks, it has taken significant steps to control and restrict their use—especially when they’re used to bypass state-imposed internet censorship.

Since 2017, Russian law has required internet service providers to block access to websites that host prohibited content, including those related to terrorism, drugs, or extremist materials. To enforce this, authorities also demand that VPN providers comply with government regulations and block access to banned sites. Major services operating in Russia, such as ExpressVPN and Surfshark, have pulled out of the country rather than comply with these rules, limiting available options for users.

The Kremlin has shown increasing interest in monitoring online activity and maintaining control over digital spaces. Authorities have discussed introducing further restrictions on tools that enable anonymous browsing, including new technical measures aimed at detecting and blocking unauthorized VPN traffic.

So while everyday Russians can still technically use a VPN, especially through foreign-based services not registered in Russia, doing so to access blocked content—like independent media or messaging platforms—carries some risk. Enforcement may vary, but the message from the government is clear: circumventing online restrictions is discouraged.

For travelers or expats, using a reputable VPN for security on public networks is generally safe, as long as it’s not actively used to bypass official blocks. Still, it's wise to stay informed—internet regulations in Russia continue to evolve, and what's tolerated today might not be tomorrow.

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