With the development of games becoming increasingly popular and accessible, gamers are eager to jump on board for the latest releases. However, it is important to note certain studios' policies and regulations when playing certain games.
Russian Game Atomic Heart Reportedly Collects User Data and Gives It to the FSB
This is especially so for the new game Atomic Heart, developed by the Russian studio Mundfish. Recent controversy has brought to the public that the studio's privacy policy allows it to collect user data, which is then transferred to FSB (The Federal Security Service of Russia).
According to the story by Giz China, this already raises suspicion for many users, as FSB is associated with the Russian state authorities and rules, which would mean that one of the rules users agree to upon playing this game is to hand over their personal data to a state defense agency.
The Game's Privacy Policy Reveals How Funds from the Game are Used in War Efforts
Worse still, the studio is cited for having had funds from the "Gazprom" money and the sanctioned VTB that connects it to political affairs. This is further confirmed by the privacy policy, which states their mobilization laws, noting the recruitment of soldiers in the Russian military to continue the war against Ukraine.
With such alarming news, as seen in the Russian article AIN, it is important to ensure the privacy and safety of personal data before playing a game from a certain studio. Players should take the time to read the privacy policies and ensure that their safety is not compromised by agreeing to an ambiguous agreement.
What is the FSB and Why It Matters
The Federal Security Service (FSB) is Russia's premier security organization, and a successor to the Soviet-era KGB, as further explained in Britannica. It is responsible for the Russian Federation's internal security, counterintelligence, and counterterrorism activities. The FSB was created in April 1995 after the breakup of the Soviet Union.
It is one of the three successor organizations to the KGB and was originally an agency within the Russian Ministry of Security. Unlike the KGB, the FSB is a part of the executive branch.
What Does the FSB Do and What is It Known for
The FSB has many responsibilities, including counterintelligence, counterterrorism, and border security. In addition, it is responsible for protecting state and public security, preventing illegal activities such as organized crime, and protecting the Russian Federation's constitutional order.
It also plays a prominent role in intelligence-gathering and surveillance operations and is heavily involved in monitoring the activities of activist groups, students, and political dissidents.
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The FSB Also Oversees Other Russian Intelligence Services
In addition to its various security functions, the FSB also oversees the operations of Russia's intelligence services, such as the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) and the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU).
It is also responsible for conducting background checks on citizens suspected of posing a threat to national security and conducting investigative activities in coordination with other government agencies.
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