Story perspectives

Russia Cracks Down on Illicit Data Market Amid Threats

12/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Russia is intensifying efforts to control the illicit probiv market for leaked personal data.
Investigative journalist Andrei Zakharov notes that probiv has aided journalists and security services.
The Kremlin now views probiv as a threat because phone scams and Ukrainian intelligence exploit leaked data.
Recent crackdowns have led to arrests of brokers, while many have relocated abroad, increasing sensitive leaks including a significant FSB database leak.

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Story summary

Russia is intensifying efforts to control the illicit probiv market for leaked personal data.
Investigative journalist Andrei Zakharov notes that probiv has aided journalists and security services.
The Kremlin now views probiv as a threat because phone scams and Ukrainian intelligence exploit leaked data.
Recent crackdowns have led to arrests of brokers, while many have relocated abroad, increasing sensitive leaks including a significant FSB database leak.