The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has detained a Kyiv banker who was secretly working for Russia’s FSB intelligence service, passing the personal data of Ukrainian Defense Forces soldiers and military volunteers to Moscow.
The 40-year-old, employed in the information security department of a commercial bank, was caught before he could use the stolen information to aid Russian attacks or recruitment operations against Ukrainian defence forces.
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SBU cyber specialists said the suspect collected the personal data of Ukrainian soldiers and military volunteers who were among the bank’s clients.
The information could have been used by Russia for terrorist attacks, information sabotage, or recruitment operations targeting Ukrainian soldiers.
Investigators seized four smartphones, three laptops, and multiple SIM cards used to conceal communications with Russian handlers. The devices also contained evidence of his contacts with the FSB.
According to investigators, the banker initially drew Russian attention through activity on a banned social network.
After being recruited, he received “test” assignments from his handler, including photographing buildings near Defense Forces bases in Kyiv and mapping potential positions.
Later, he was tasked with collecting information on bank clients who were soldiers or volunteers supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and providing Moscow with the coordinates of a backup data center storing the bank’s database and client information.
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The SBU has charged the agent with high treason under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which applies during martial law. He is to be held in custody without bail and faces life imprisonment with property confiscation.
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