Russia's Ministry of Digital Development plans to create a database of unique IMEI identification numbers for all mobile devices in 2026 to combat unmanned aerial vehicles and reduce internet shutdowns, Deputy Minister Dmitry Ugnivenko said on December 17.

The database will store 15-digit identifiers for each mobile device capable of using SIM cards, linking them to specific phone numbers to identify whether a SIM card is being used in a drone. Moscow authorities have tightened SIM card controls after Ukrainian forces began using them in attacking drones for navigation and communication with operators.

Ugnivenko told a meeting of the ministry's Public Council that creating the database could allow more targeted restrictions rather than blanket internet blackouts.

"If we create this database and link them to specific numbers, we can accurately identify that a SIM card is not located in a UAV, and then we hope this blocking regime might ease slightly because it will be more precise targeting," he said, Interfax reported.

The ministry did not disclose who will input information into the database or how IMEI numbers from devices already in use will be collected.

Eldar Murtazin, lead expert at Mobile Research Group, told Abzats portal the registry poses no threat to personal data security.

He noted foreigners already provide IMEI numbers when purchasing SIM cards in Russia, requiring biometric verification and linking devices to their phone numbers.

Murtazin said Russians may also lose the ability to easily transfer SIM cards between devices after the database is created, calling this a "serious restriction".

Russia first applied mass internet restrictions in May, with the Ministry of Digital Development creating a "white list" by August of sites and services accessible during shutdowns.

The list includes taxi and delivery services, MAX messenger, maps, government service websites and media outlets.

Russia banned SIM card transfers to third parties in June, whilst a law limiting the number of SIM cards per person took effect on November 1.

Russia introduced a one-day "cooling off period" for foreign SIM cards on October 6, disabling mobile internet and SMS upon entry.

The measure was extended to Russian citizens returning from abroad on November 10, though numbers can be unfrozen early through verification.

"When a SIM card crosses the border, roaming automatically activates and the operator loses control capability. This concerns SIM cards crossing from outside: a drone flew from Ukraine, crossed the border, and the SIM card stopped being manageable," investigations department director Igor Bederov told Gazeta.ru.