Why Russian President Vladimir Putin Avoids Smartphones: The Reason Behind Staying Away from Mobile Devices

New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin is arriving in India for a two-day visit starting December 4, 2025. While his diplomatic engagements draw global attention, his personal lifestyle choices—particularly his avoidance of smartphones—have also intrigued many. Unlike leaders such as former U.S. President Donald Trump, who actively used an iPhone, Putin has no personal smartphone and openly admits he is not tech-savvy.

Putin Confirms: “I Don’t Have a Smartphone”
According to France 24, in 2018, during a meeting with scientists, Putin remarked that unlike most people, he does not own a smartphone. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has also confirmed in interviews that the President does not carry a personal phone, citing concerns over privacy and security, particularly for someone in his position.

Avoiding Modern Technology
Putin has repeatedly stated that he is not proficient with modern technology and uses the internet very minimally. At the Kremlin, mobile phones are completely banned, and he communicates only through official government lines. He believes that smartphones and online platforms pose security risks, and even those around him are restricted from using mobile devices or internet-enabled gadgets.

Caution About the Internet
Speaking to schoolchildren, Putin once remarked that he rarely uses the internet, describing it as a project heavily influenced by the CIA and noting that “half of the content online is inappropriate.” He maintains that nothing online is completely secure, reinforcing his cautious stance on technology.

Staying Informed Without a Phone
Despite avoiding mobile phones, Putin remains well-informed. He receives updates through intelligence reports, official documents, and television news channels, ensuring he stays abreast of both domestic and global developments. Critics argue that his lack of direct access to digital platforms may limit his exposure to the broader spectrum of information available online, but his team ensures he is consistently briefed on essential matters.

This unique approach reflects Putin’s emphasis on security and privacy, making him one of the few world leaders in the digital age to intentionally stay disconnected from smartphones and the internet.