Currently, the Russians are attempting to track every instance of Ukrainian citizens using internet resources or messaging apps banned by the occupation authorities—sometimes blocking entire districts to identify such users, reports Andrii Cherniak, a representative of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense (HUR), as per Ukrinform.
The Russian persecution of Ukrainians in occupied territories is marked by systematic human rights abuses, including torture, arbitrary detention, and enforced disappearances. Reports indicate that Russian military and security services have targeted individuals suspected of opposing the invasion, leading to widespread violations of international humanitarian law. Victims often endure severe physical and psychological violence during interrogations.
“There are cases where, after blocking entire districts when someone accesses a social network, they simply arrest everyone, imprison them, and then try to determine who accessed the internet, what information was transmitted or received,” the official informed.
Cherniak says Russian forces have reprogrammed Ukrainian mobile and internet equipment in occupied territories for surveillance.
“When the occupiers seized these territories, they simply stole this equipment, reprogrammed it, and now use it as their own. All this is done to maintain total control and surveillance over the residents of occupied areas,” Cherniak explained.
The intelligence representative also stated that one of the Russian tactics includes creating fake pages designed to lure citizens.
“The occupiers are attempting to create fake information resources and accounts that resemble those of the Main Intelligence Directorate, hoping people will visit them so the occupation authorities can track and arrest them,” said the HUR official.
Cherniak urged Ukrainian patriots in occupied territories to remain vigilant and highlighted that anyone wishing to support Ukraine can use secure contact options and guidelines available on the official resources of the Main Intelligence Directorate.
Read also:
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- Russian forces advance in Toretsk, Donetsk Oblast – DeepState
