Darkweb Used by Crpto-Paying Russians to Hire Criminals

A recent report from Russian newspaper Izvestia reveals that individuals using cryptocurrency are increasingly turning to the dark web to hire arsonists and other criminals to carry out assaults.

The investigation uncovered evidence linking numerous fires and assaults to hardened criminals, including murderers, who operate through dark web portals, the Telegram chat app, and crypto wallets.

Izvestia noted that the "requirements for applicants" seeking to become arsonists are alarmingly low.

Russian newspaper Izvestia noted:

“Potential participants must provide a photo to demonstrate they have adequate levels of physical fitness. That lets customers verify the [criminal's] ability to complete the task. Most often, these mercenaries are paid in cryptocurrency after they provide their customers with a photo or video evidence of the arson.”

Citing police sources and its own findings, the newspaper reported that "anonymous dark web forum posters" promote "popular" arson services targeting vehicles, residences, cafes, and shops.

While law enforcement is often able to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators, they acknowledge that tracing those who commissioned these crimes is considerably more challenging.

One suspected arsonist, recently detained in Kaliningrad, had a history of violence, having served ten years in prison for murder, and was linked to a series of fire attacks.

Criminals Are Getting Younger

Recent investigations indicate that not only seasoned criminals but also teenagers are being paid in cryptocurrency to commit arson.

The media outlet explained:

“In the fall of 2024, a series of similar crimes took place in the Moscow region. They were united by a common pattern. Teenagers were setting fire to cars or the entrance of apartment buildings. They all spray-painted a treble clef nearby.”

Izvestia reported that it managed to reach out to the alleged organiser of this group, known on the darknet as "Pianist."

He confirmed receiving requests for arson services and expressed indifference about the identities of those paying for the crimes.

Pianist stated that he was largely unconcerned with the customers' motives or the potential risks of retaliation from the targets of his attacks.

However, he did assert that he would "immediately reject" any requests from Ukrainian special services.

Izvestia also published what appears to be a price list for arson-related services, revealing that "simple" arson typically costs around $1,500, with the individuals setting the fires receiving approximately $750 in cryptocurrency.

In a notable incident, a blogger focused on cryptoassets had his BMW set ablaze by four 17-year-old boys in Moscow last month.

The outlet provided evidence that both teenagers and older criminals have been hired to vandalise property, including smashing store windows and inflicting serious bodily harm.

The Russian Prosecutor General's Office has taken notice of the rise in crypto-driven crime.

Earlier this month, it convened a meeting to address crimes utilising the internet, cryptocurrency, and IT resources.

They reported seizing 19,800 digital communication devices in 2023, including 10,300 from prisons, along with 12,600 SIM cards used in various criminal activities, including theft, child exploitation, and drug trafficking.