Russian intelligence services create fake websites, social network pages, and messaging channels to mimic Ukrainian government agencies, security bodies, media, and high-ranking officials, Kiev has stated, according to Euronews.
According to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), these fake web resources mimic official names, logos, photographs, and visual identity elements in an attempt to appear legitimate. The agency stated that it has recorded a significant increase in these manipulative activities and has already identified and blocked over 50 resources that copied the visual identity and appearance of the SBU itself.
Furthermore, fake accounts were created in the names of Ukrainian officials. Among previous examples are Telegram accounts impersonating President Volodymyr Zelensky, First Lady Olena Zelenska, former head of the presidential office Andrii Yermak, and former head of the SBU, Vasil Maliuk.
The Ukrainian center for combating disinformation also warned about fake accounts using the names and photos of security officials to publish alleged inside or exclusive information. In some cases, operators reuse older Telegram channels, including pages dedicated to cryptocurrencies, changing their names and visual identity to make them appear official.
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