Russian parliament softens anti-fraud law: 'Maks' use is not mandatory

Russia's State Duma has softened certain provisions of an anti-fraud bill in its second reading. A requirement was removed that would have obliged citizens to confirm important transactions, including financial operations, through the 'Maks' state messaging application.

Russia's State Duma has made several provisions of an anti-fraud bill less stringent in its second reading. The bill has been amended to remove a requirement that would have obliged Russian citizens to confirm important transactions, including financial operations, through the state messaging application 'Maks', according to Kommersant.

In the earlier version, it was envisaged that users would be required to use the 'Maks' platform in order to carry out certain important transactions. However, this requirement drew widespread criticism, and lawmakers decided to remove it from the bill.

The bill's overall aim remains the protection of Russian citizens from financial fraud, but the changes made have placed greater emphasis on the principle of voluntary use of specific applications.