Roskomnadzor Blocks BestChange for the Fifth Time—What This Means for Cryptocurrency Users
Roskomnadzor has once again restricted access to BestChange—the leading Russian-language service where users verify cryptocurrency exchange reliability. This marks the fifth such block since 2017, each time leaving thousands of users without a simple, safe way to exchange funds.
Why Is BestChange So Important?
BestChange is neither an exchange nor a wallet. It’s like “Yandex.Market” for crypto exchangers: it aggregates ratings, fees, and user reviews for hundreds of services that convert rubles to Bitcoin, Tether, or other digital assets. Without it, newcomers struggle to identify trustworthy providers—and fraud remains a serious issue in this space.
Imagine wanting to exchange dollars for euros in an unfamiliar city. You’d open Google, check exchange office ratings, read about others’ negative experiences. BestChange does exactly that for cryptocurrencies—but now this “navigator” has vanished from the open web again.
How Does the Block Work?
This time, Roskomnadzor blocked three domains at once: BestChange.ru, .com, and .net. No official reason was given, but the Central Bank of Russia previously requested blocking resources that “disseminate information in violation of the law.” Since December 2021, the CBR has held this authority—and has actively used it against crypto services.
BestChange itself claims competitors are behind the blocks. During the previous incident in February 2025, the team noticed a surge in sponsored articles criticizing their platform while promoting alternatives. That’s not proof—but the timing is suspicious.
How Can Users Access the Service Now?
Despite the block, the service remains fully operational:
- Via the new domain BestChange.pro
- Using browser extensions for Opera, Chrome, Firefox, Yandex Browser, and Edge
- Through VPNs or anonymizers (though less convenient)
Important: BestChange does not hold funds or process transactions—it only displays who does. Technically, it cannot be “hacked” or “wiped out,” but without website access, users lose critical orientation.
Key Facts
- BestChange is a critical security tool for Russian-speaking cryptocurrency users.
- Blocks have recurred since 2017, with increasing frequency—five times in eight years.
- The Central Bank of Russia can initiate blocks without court approval, a power granted in 2021.
- The service remains accessible via alternative domains and browser extensions.
- There is no evidence of hacking or fraud by BestChange—these blocks are regulatory in nature.
What Does This Mean for Everyday Users?
If you’ve ever exchanged rubles for cryptocurrency using private exchangers, BestChange likely helped you avoid scams. Its unavailability doesn’t prevent transactions themselves—but significantly raises the risk of error, especially for newcomers. As the CBR tightens oversight of digital assets, such blocks may become routine. For now, technical workarounds function—but require extra effort and know-how.
— Editorial Team
