Sochi Strengthens Cybersecurity to Protect Youth and Improve Resident Feedback
Sochi has bolstered its cybersecurity measures to safeguard young residents online, addressing concerns about online risks while enhancing resident feedback systems. Recent initiatives include cyber patrols, educational programs, and improved digital feedback systems. The city's administration has also prioritized reducing complaints about key urban issues.
However, claims about an expanded meeting led by Mayor Andrei Proshunin reviewing these cybersecurity measures appear unverified, as no public records confirm such sessions under his leadership in recent years.
A volunteer cyber unit called SHCHIT-IT has played a significant role in monitoring online threats. With 40 members, the group flagged over 26,000 suspicious links in the past year, with more than 10,000 forwarded to Roskomnadzor for potential blocking.
Educational projects have also expanded. The Dialogue with Heroes initiative held 46 meetings for 4,600 teenagers, while interactive formats like PRO100 and VSETI continue to grow. Additionally, nearly 50 events on preventing extremism reached over 6,000 students. In partnership with the Sochi Diocese, 60 discussions on moral safety were organized for 7,700 young people.
To enhance public engagement, the city has strengthened its digital feedback tools. The Incident Management system and Unified Contact Center now handle more real-time queries. Over 44,000 citizen inquiries were processed through online comment sections last year. Mayor Proshunin reportedly directed officials to increase their presence in these digital spaces.
Meanwhile, broader efforts have reduced complaints about heating preparations, parking, and other urban issues. Residents' top concerns remain infrastructure, housing, waste management, public safety, and road conditions.
The city's focus on cybersecurity and streamlining resident feedback has led to tangible action. Cyber patrols, school programs, and digital tools have all seen increased activity. Yet, without verified records of recent high-level meetings, the exact oversight of these cybersecurity measures remains uncertain.
