From June 29, 2023, with the entry into force of the Federal Law No. 193 "On Amendments to Part Four of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation", Rospatent began to register a pledge of the exclusive right to a registered computer program or database.

Now it will become easier for buyers or pledgees to check for encumbrances in relation to a particular program registered with Rospatent. This will stimulate cooperation with the IT business and the development of lending secured by the rights to "software". Technology start-up companies will have the opportunity to obtain more favourable loan terms.

Previously, the legislation did not provide for state registration of a pledge for registered computer programs and databases. It applied only to objects of exclusive rights such as inventions, utility models, industrial designs, trademarks and layouts of integrated circuits.