Digital inequality as a challenge to the regional economy

The article examines the problem of digital inequality in the context of a challenge to the economic security of the region, which requires adequate responses. Existing ways to solve the problem of digital inequality do not allow us to cope with the growing challenge in the face of new circumstances that are actively affecting the economic security of the regions. Scientific tasks to solve the identified problem consist of analyzing trends and existing challenges of digital inequality, identifying measures to level out the challenges of digital inequality and identifying factors for strengthening the economic security of the region. The methodological basis of the study consists of the statistical-economic method, the method of analysis and synthesis, and the graphical method. The logic of the article is built on the basis of the tasks set by the President and the Government of the Russian Federation to ensure the accelerated implementation of digital technologies in the economy, social sphere and the development of the information society. The study identified problems of lack of mobile communications and Internet access in remote and sparsely populated areas, lack of digital skills among the population, and many others that make it difficult to move to the second stage of eliminating the digital divide. As a result, promising directions for the development of information technology, levels and elements of digital inequality, as well as directions for leveling digital inequality in the region were analyzed. Promising areas for the implementation of digital technologies in the region have been identified, regional projects aimed at solving the problem of digital inequality have been analyzed, and factors for strengthening the economic security of the region have been identified.