Investigations
Over nearly 15 years in journalism, I have published dozens of investigative articles on state regulation of the internet, the development of IT systems for voter surveillance during elections, the activities of various hacker groups, efforts by major Russian IT companies to expand their businesses abroad despite sanctions, and criminal cases against prominent figures in Russia’s IT industry. Here are some of my most notable works.
Russia Enforces Domestic Encryption Standards Across the Runet
This investigation dives into Russia’s push to implement its own cryptographic standards (GOST) across digital infrastructure, including web browsers and certification systems. Through internal documents, interviews, and rare technical insights, it reveals how Russia is building a parallel internet architecture -- one that mimics global norms but is rooted in domestic control.
Runet’s Imprisoned Founder
Alexey Soldatov, one of the pioneers behind Russia’s early internet infrastructure and former head of the .su domain registry, now stands accused in a politically charged criminal case. Meduza reveals that the investigation was launched at the behest of Andrey Lipov -- a senior Kremlin official and architect of the sovereign internet -- shedding light on a behind-the-scenes power struggle over digital control.
Unmasking FIN7: Moscow’s Role in Cyber Heists
They thought they were writing code for business software. In reality, they were helping one of the world’s most dangerous hacking groups. This rare investigation traces how ordinary tech jobs in Moscow turned into tools of global cybercrime -- and no one asked questions.
Russia plans stiffer fines for tech firms that break rules
Citing confidential sources, this exclusive report reveals that Russian lawmakers were preparing legislation to dramatically increase fines for foreign tech companies that violate data storage and content rules. The investigation provides an early look at how the Kremlin was escalating regulatory pressure as part of its wider effort to assert control over the digital sphere.
Russian high tech project flounders after U.S. sanctions
This in-depth report uncovers how a major Russian government-backed microchip project -- once hailed as a leap toward tech independence -- unraveled after U.S. sanctions cut off access to crucial Western components. Drawing on confidential documents and insider accounts, the investigation offers a rare look at how geopolitical pressure derailed one of Russia’s most ambitious high-tech efforts.
Russia tries more precise technology to block Telegram
This groundbreaking investigation was the first to reveal how Russian authorities began using deep packet inspection (DPI) technology to block Telegram after earlier methods failed. Drawing on insider sources and technical details, it exposed the early infrastructure of Russia’s digital censorship -- a system that would later become the foundation for the “sovereign Runet”.
FSB Targets Telegram Due to Crypto Project Concerns
This investigation uncovers the real reasons behind Russia’s attempt to block Telegram. It reveals how Pavel Durov’s plans to launch a cryptocurrency triggered concerns within the FSB. With exclusive insights, the report provides a detailed look at the government’s actions and the security risks they believed the project posed.
FSB’s Cyber Chief and His Family’s IT Business
An explosive investigation reveals how the family of Andrei Gerasimov -- former head of the FSB's cybersecurity division -- built a lucrative IT business specializing in classified military contracts. Through 'LinTechno', his children secured deals with Russia's Defense Ministry while their father regulated the very industry they profited from.
FSB and Kaspersky Figures Arrested in State Treason Investigation
This article marks the first in a series of exclusive investigations revealing unprecedented details about high-ranking FSB officials and Kaspersky Lab employees being accused of state treason in favor of the United States. Prior to this groundbreaking publication, these allegations were unknown to the public, making this an international-level exclusive.