In Chernivtsi, the SSU uncovered a powerful bot farm in specializing in ‘growing’ bot accounts in social media and selling them on the black market. According to available information, the group created and ‘promoted’ over 20,000 bots.

It was established that most of the bot profiles were bought by pro-Russian agitators. The accounts had a long history and were verified in social media using fake passports of Ukrainians.

The accounts were used to discredit Ukrainian state and the Armed Forces, to justify Russia’s armed aggression and incite ‘anti-vaccination’ sentiments.

According to the investigation, the group included about 15 individuals and operated in a rented office in Chernivtsi.

During the search of this office, the law enforcement seized:

• computer equipment with evidence of illegal activity;
• special software;
• 6,400 starter kits of Ukrainian and foreign mobile operators, including Russian ones;
• over 4,000 cards of Ukrainian banks.

Investigation is underway to identify and prosecute all those involved.

The SSU Office in Chernivtsi region carried out the operation jointly with the Cybercrime Unit of the National Police under the supervision of Chernivtsi District Prosecutor’s Office.