In order to inform the Russian population about the Ukraine war, many people use the ratings on Google Maps. This is how they bypass censorship.
Moscow – The war in Ukraine continues. People around the world are protesting against the Russian attack. Now some, including the Russian population, who know little about what is happening in Ukraine, are trying to provide information about the war. They use the rating system on Google for this.
Usually, the ratings on Google Maps are used to rate the performance of restaurants or shops and to make recommendations. But at a time when Ukrainians are taking refuge* in subway stations to protect themselves from bombs and gunshots, people are trying everything to stop the war.
Avoiding Russian censorship in the Ukraine war with Google Maps: “Rebel against your dictator”
They want to bypass Russian censorship with Google Maps. Because in the media in Russia, terms such as “attack” or “war” on current events are prohibited, as the Russian media regulator Roskomnadzor announced. Only official Russian sources of information would provide reliable and up-to-date information, the statement from Saturday (February 26, 2022) said. The people in Russia therefore receive rather one-sided reporting.
The hacker group Anonymous also calls on Twitter to rate restaurants or shops in Russia on Google Maps and to describe what happened in the Ukraine conflict* there. The hacker group also cites a text that has already been translated into Russian as possible evaluations: “The food was great! Unfortunately, Putin spoiled our appetite when he attacked Ukraine. Rebel against your dictator, stop the murder of innocent people! Your government lies to you. Get up!” Many users have already reacted to the tweet and also want to give ratings.
Bypass Russian censorship with Google Maps: Hacker group Anonymous calls for evaluation
Anonymous recommends leaving a five-star rating. However, if it is a state-owned company, users could also write a one-star rating. Since the platform has not yet been affected by Russia’s censorship, it could reach the people of Russia directly.
The Klitschko brothers have already appealed to Europe* for help. (Samira Müller) *hna.de is an offer from IPPEN.MEDIA
