Russia has begun pressuring major Internet websites to block material it deems illegal or “harmful” to children.  Critics say it’s an overreach that would allow the increasingly authoritarian government to crackdown on protests against President Vladimir Putin.

The law that was passed in November was supposed to be narrowly focused to deal with harmful acts and child pornography.

For instance, Russia’s communications regulators ordered YouTube to block a video that they claim promotes suicide.  But YouTube filed a lawsuit explaining the video instructs viewers how to make a fake wound with makeup materials and a razor blade, and that it was intended for entertainment and should not be restricted.

Other websites are bowing to Russian demands.  Facebook last week removed a page called “Club Suicid” for violating the social network’s rules against “controversial humor”.  It had been flagged by the Russian government.

Twitter also removed items the Russians complained were related to drugs and suicide.