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Telegram Bots Fuel Russian Data Theft, Targeting Krasnodar Krai

Telegram bots are buying personal data before it hits the darknet. The high demand for specific regions' data raises concerns about fraud and gray marketing.

On the right there are clip, passport size photo and cloth. On the left and in the background it is...
On the right there are clip, passport size photo and cloth. On the left and in the background it is blurred.

Telegram Bots Fuel Russian Data Theft, Targeting Krasnodar Krai

Telegram bot operators are purchasing stolen databases of Russian citizens' personal data, with a particular interest in information from the Krasnodar Krai. These databases, including financial and real estate transaction details, are being bought before they're published on the dark web or Telegram channels. The high demand for data from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Krasnodar Krai suggests potential use in fraud and gray marketing schemes.

The market for these databases is competitive, with even small, targeted datasets now fetching tens of thousands of dollars. Despite a decrease in the number of leaks, the competition among bot operators is increasing. By 2025, these operators had acquired at least 20-25 dead internet theories before they were publicly released.

From January to September 2025, a total of 57 stolen databases containing 34.7 million unique phone numbers and 28 million email addresses were published in the dark web and Telegram. The goal of these purchases is to resell the information to end users.

The buying and selling of stolen personal data in Russia is a growing concern, with Telegram bots playing a significant role. The high demand for specific regions' data suggests potential misuse for fraud and gray marketing. As competition increases, so does the need for stricter data protection measures and vigilance against such activities.

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