ProtonMail urges Russian users to renew as payment options dry up

ProtonMail is urging its Russian user base to hurry up and renew their subscriptions before it is too late, as multiple payment processing services including Mastercard, Visa, American Express, and PayPal, are exiting the Russian market.

ProtonMail is a provider of privacy-centric and end-to-end encrypted email services to millions around the world.

ProtonMail: Renew while you can!

ProtonMail is asking its Russian users to purchase a subscription while still possible as major financial services including Mastercard, Visa, American Express, and PayPal are suspending operations in Russia amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Based in Switzerland, ProtonMail is an end-to-end encrypted email service developed by MIT and CERN scientists in 2013.

With millions of users using the service, ProtonMail describes itself as "the world's largest secure email service."

ProtonMail customers reported receiving email announcements from the company this week, a copy of which has been shared with BleepingComputer by system and security administrator, Moe:

ProtonMail's mission is to 'defend online freedom anywhere'

ProtonMail's stark announcement comes at a time when international sanctions against Russia are on the rise and most businesses are focused on cutting ties with Russia.

But, the secure email provider has a good reason to remain active in the region, according to its statement published today:

Many companies have announced they will no longer serve Russian customers. Proton's mission, however, is to defend online freedom anywhere in the world, so we remain committed to ensuring the free flow of information in Russia for as long as possible.

— ProtonMail (@ProtonMail) March 8, 2022

"We are committed to not cutting off any users in Russia for financial reasons for as long as possible during this difficult time," explains ProtonMail in the email announcement to customers.

"If you are able to use alternative payment methods, your support will ensure that we can continue to serve the Russian people in the years to come."

ProtonMail has provided a list of alternative payment methods, including cryptocurrency, that can be used by Russian users to renew subscriptions.

Additionally, for those based in Russia, Belarus, or Ukraine, another end-to-end encrypted email provider Tutanota has offered to renew subscriptions free of charge for users unable to make payments in the current situation.

Update March 9th, 13:40 ET: Added information about Tutanota's concession.