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Microsoft to remove RT apps, ban Russian state-owned media ads

Microsoft to remove RT apps, ban Russian state-owned media ads

Microsoft

MicrosoftCorp said on Monday it wouldremoveRussian state-owned media outlet RT's mobile apps from the Windows App store and ban advertisements onRussian state-sponsored media, as global tech firms respond to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

The company said it would not display any state-sponsored RT and Sputnik content, de-rank their search results on Bing and not place any ads from its ad network on those sites.

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Western tech companies, including Facebook-owner Meta Platforms Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google, have placed restrictions onRussia's state-controlled media outlets in Ukraine and around the world.

Google has banned downloads of RT's mobile app on Ukrainian territory after barringRussia's state-owned media outlet RT and other channels from receiving money for ads on their websites, apps and YouTube videos.

Facebook is barringRussian state media from running ads or monetizing on its platform anywhere in the world.

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"(We) will make ongoing adjustments to strengthen our detection and disruption mechanisms to avoid the spread of disinformation and promote instead independent and trusted content,"Microsoftsaid in a blog.

A growing list of companies are also looking to exitRussiaas sanctions from Western countries tighten.