I’d say this signals intent, but reeks of incompetence, a lack of preparation, a lack of capability, and desperation. I’d say overall this is a good sign. They aren’t able to effectively engage in mass surveillance and round up dissidents en masse.
This is also the finest example of the shortcomings of biometric security I’ve seen: all they need is part of your body, and it’s a password you can never change.
This video itself is likely meant for Russian consumption. The Russian government doesn't need it to be 100% effective, it's far easier if people get scared and self censor, refraining from mentioning anything about the war, knowing in the back of their heads that this could happen to them at anytime.
While them not being able to just use your face or fingerprint makes it harder for them to just unlock your phone, when you consider that what they're doing is already illegal, are you really willing to suffer the potentially highly unpleasant consequences for not unlocking the phone for them?
So unless you're someone prepared to suffer potential consequences for making a stand on principle, using a password instead of biometric access is probably not going to change the outcome here.
For those prepared to make such sacrifices, yes, pay attention to operational security such as not using biometrics.
This is also the finest example of the shortcomings of biometric security I’ve seen: all they need is part of your body, and it’s a password you can never change.