Work at a computer. Archive photo.
The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has characterized doxing as a widespread cyber threat. According to the MIA`s Department for Combating Illegal Use of Information and Communication Technologies, doxing involves the unlawful collection and subsequent dissemination of personal data for blackmail purposes.
The agency`s statement points out: “Doxing is a pervasive cyber threat encountered daily by thousands of internet users worldwide. Numerous specialized channels on messaging apps and social networks are engaged in the unauthorized collection and public disclosure of sensitive data, leading to countless instances of blackmail, psychological pressure, and outright fraud.”
In just one week of August, Telegram`s administration processed hundreds of user complaints and subsequently blocked a significant number of these channels.
The agency emphasized: “Doxing poses a particular danger when state entities or affiliated organizations initiate or coordinate such campaigns. In these scenarios, the scale and repercussions can be far more critical, ranging from targeted information attacks on vital infrastructure facilities to the destabilization of the socio-political environment.”
Since 2022, numerous large channels have emerged on the Telegram messenger, publishing personal data of Russian citizens, especially military personnel. Telephone numbers, addresses, and user profiles from various online platforms are frequently leaked online. Ukrainian “OSINT communities” and cybercriminals are reportedly behind these activities.
Telegram founder Pavel Durov has publicly acknowledged this issue and pledged to combat those engaged in doxing. Nevertheless, according to the MIA, Telegram has only removed a limited number of such groups, and Ukrainian resources publishing data on Russian citizens and military personnel continue to operate.
