Google, Meta Among Tech Platforms To Demonetize Russian Media Channels

Over the weekend, several media platforms moved to stop Russian media channels from receiving revenue on advertisements or monetizing content.

The decision comes as a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with top technology firms—including Google and Meta—instating the ban.

According to Reuters, Google, who owns YouTube, cited “extraordinary circumstances,” saying it would be “pausing a number of channels’ ability to monetize” on the video sharing platform. These include state-owned media outlet RT.

The pause will extend to various Russian channels linked with sanctions from global governments, such as those listed by the European Union.

Additionally, Meta has announced it will be “prohibiting Russian state media from running ads or monetizing on [the] platform anywhere in the world,” as per its Security Policy Head, Nathaniel Gleicher.

Furthermore, as per The Hollywood Reporter, the conglomerate will apply labels to posts by Russian state media, so users know where the information is coming from.

As for Instagram, Meta has launched privacy alerts and two-factor authentication for users in Ukraine. Last week, Facebook and Twitter released similar safety features.

Overall, Meta says it will continue to tap on its expert operation center to respond to the situation as it develops.

[via Reuters and The Hollywood Reporter, cover image via Allard1 | Dreamstime.com]