Yandex's Shift to Full Russian Ownership

The article delves into the recent transition of Yandex, a tech giant often referred to as "Russia's Google," to complete Russian ownership. Yandex, formerly a Dutch company, has now been fully acquired by a Russian consortium, raising various concerns, especially in Georgia.

• Yandex NV, the Dutch parent company, sold its stake in Yandex to a Russian investor group for an estimated $5.4 billion.
• This deal marks a significant shift, making Yandex fully Russian-controlled.
• The move has been met with scrutiny and concerns, particularly in Georgia.

Concerns Around Yandex's User Data Security in Georgia

The article highlights the escalating security risks related to Yandex's app usage in Georgia, given the company's now full Russian ownership.

• Users are concerned about potential access to their personal data by Russian authorities, especially given Yandex's history of close ties to Russian intelligence services.
• The article cites reports of Russian authorities having access to data from Russian taxi companies.
• While Yandex Go Georgia claims that Georgian user data is protected, many are skeptical, given the company's history and its recent acquisition by a Russian consortium.

Yandex's Business Expansion in Georgia Amidst Security Concerns

Despite these concerns, Yandex is reportedly expanding its business operations in Georgia.

• The company plans to introduce a delivery service, adding to its existing taxi service, Yandex Go.
• This expansion comes even as Western countries raise concerns about Yandex's security and potential threats.

Risks Associated with Yandex's Data Collection and User Privacy

The article explores the types of personal data Yandex collects through its app, emphasizing the potential risks associated with this information falling into the wrong hands.

• Yandex collects sensitive data like names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, geolocation, payment information, and internet browsing history.
• The article stresses the potential danger of this data being accessed by Russian intelligence agencies.
• The company's move to fully Russian ownership fuels anxieties about the safety and privacy of user data.

Yandex and its Impact on Georgian Businesses

The article discusses the potential implications of Yandex's presence and expansion in Georgia for local businesses, particularly in the taxi industry.

• Reports suggest that some Georgian taxi drivers who work with Yandex face unfair practices and limitations.
• Drivers claim they are blocked from accessing profitable rides, despite having high ratings.
• This raises concerns about potential exploitation and unfair competition.

Questions Surrounding Yandex's Expansion in Georgia

The article ends with a series of unanswered questions, underscoring the ongoing debate and concerns surrounding Yandex's future in Georgia.

• The article raises questions about the rationale behind Yandex's expansion in Georgia after becoming fully Russian-owned.
• It inquires about the specific nature of the relationships between Yandex and Georgian businesses.
• The article explores the risks and challenges involved in collaborating with Yandex for Georgian businesses.
• It emphasizes the potential security risks for users in Georgia who utilize Yandex's apps.
• The article also asks if any individuals or groups are actively advocating for Yandex's expansion in Georgia.

Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Concerns

The article concludes by acknowledging that many questions remain unanswered, and the concerns surrounding Yandex's presence in Georgia persist. It suggests that more scrutiny and investigation are needed to clarify the potential risks and consequences of Yandex's growing influence.