Fact check: How many people were arrested for social media posts in Russia in 2024?

1. Summary of the results

The available analyses do not provide a specific number of people arrested for social media posts in Russia in 2024 ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]}. However, it is reported that over 30,000 cases have been initiated in Russia over social media posts and 'memes' since 2010, with around 1,200 of these being criminal cases ^[1]. Additionally, the sources discuss internet censorship and control in Russia, with lawmakers approving a bill punishing online searches for information deemed 'extremist' ^[5], and note that Russian internet users face far greater restrictions on their use of social media ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

• The analyses highlight the lack of specific data on arrests for social media posts in 2024, which is a key omission ^{[1] [3] [4] [5]}.
• The sources provide different perspectives on internet censorship and control in Russia, with some discussing the number of cases initiated over social media posts ^[1] and others focusing on the restrictions faced by Russian internet users ^[2].
• The fact that Russian lawmakers approved a bill punishing online searches for information deemed 'extremist' adds context to the discussion of internet control in Russia ^[5].
• The comparison between the UK and Russia in terms of arrests for social media posts highlights the complexity of the issue, with 3,300 arrests made in the UK and 411 criminal prosecutions opened against internet users in Russia in 2017 ^[2].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading due to the lack of specific data on arrests for social media posts in 2024 ^{[1] [3] [4] [5]}. The sources suggest that Russian authorities may benefit from the lack of transparency in this area, as it allows them to maintain control over internet use without being held accountable for specific actions ^{[2] [5]}. On the other hand, human rights organizations may benefit from highlighting the restrictions faced by Russian internet users, as it raises awareness about the issue and puts pressure on the authorities to respect freedom of expression ^{[2] [4]}.