More Russians seeking fake military and law enforcement IDs on dark web to evade draft
A growing number of Russians have started purchasing falsified law enforcement ID cards and other documents indicating they hold military or law enforcement ranks, Kommersant reported Tuesday. Cybersecurity experts have reportedly observed a flood of document forging services on the dark web and on Telegram since the start of Russia’s mobilization campaign.
The cost of a single forgery can range from 30,000 rubles (about $485) to 1.5 million rubles ($24,242), according to Igor Bederov, owner of the company Internet-Rozysk, who spoke to Kommersant.
“These are documents that, in buyers’ minds, may allow their owners to settle in relatively safe areas in the event of mobilization, or get a deferral from the service altogether,” Bederov told the outlet. He said the new offers are taking advantage of the spike in demand, which will only grow if Russia’s economic and social situation gets worse.
Experts told Kommersant that Russians should be careful as attempting to use a fake official ID to evade military service can result in criminal liability.
To flee or not to flee
In September, Meduza’s Lilia Yapparova asked Russian soldiers who have already fought in Ukraine what, in their view, awaits the people being conscripted now. The veterans painted a harrowing picture of a losing war.
