• Yandex bans ads for crypto exchanges, smart contracts, mining and ICOs in Russia.
• However, advertisements for mining equipment, educational content and legal advice are excluded.
• Yandex allows crypto advertising outside of Russia, provided local regulations are strictly adhered to.

In a major change that reflects Russia’s strict regulations, Yandex, the country’s largest search engine, has updated its advertising policies and banned cryptocurrency-related ads.

The new policy, which takes effect immediately, brings Yandex’s activities into line with recent legislative changes implemented by President Vladimir Putin.

Crypto exchanges, mining activities and ICO advertisements banned

Under the updated policy, Yandex has imposed a broad ban on ads for crypto exchanges, blockchain services, smart contracts, mining activities, and ICOs. This also applies to any promotional content related to revenue from these activities and services that monitor crypto wallets and transactions for money laundering.

The decision underscores Yandex’s commitment to complying with Russia’s strict regulations on cryptocurrency advertising.

However, the new rules do allow for certain exceptions. Advertisements for physical equipment used in crypto mining and storage, educational content, training materials, and events related to cryptocurrency, mining, and ICOs will still be allowed. In addition, Yandex will allow advertisements for legal consultations related to crypto matters.

This nuanced approach ensures that while the platform limits promotional activities related to cryptocurrency investments, it continues to support the educational and legal aspects of the sector.

For regions outside Russia, Yandex has a more lenient stance on crypto ads. However, ads must comply with local regulations and Yandex policies, including the prohibition on guaranteeing earnings and claiming risk-free transactions.

This international flexibility contrasts with stricter domestic regulations and highlights the changing global landscape for crypto-related advertising.