Russian Tech Entrepreneur Who Criticized the Max App and Opposed the Criminalizing of Security Flaw Disclosure, Arrested on Treason Charges
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Key Takeaways
- Arrest and charges: A 21-year-old Russian cybersecurity entrepreneur has been arrested in Moscow on treason charges.
- Public criticism: Kilin had publicly criticized the state-backed messaging app Max and opposed a proposed bill that would criminalize the disclosure of security flaws.
- Tech community concerns: His arrest is the latest in a series of actions taken against Russia’s tech community.
A 21-year-old cybersecurity specialist and tech entrepreneur, Timur Kilin, was arrested in Moscow on charges of treason. The details of the case against him are classified, but reports from Russian media suggest his arrest may be linked to his public criticism of state-sponsored technology initiatives and legislation.Â
This high-profile arrest signals an intensification of the Russia tech crackdown, raising concerns among cybersecurity professionals and tech innovators within the country. Kilin, who founded the cybersecurity startup Spide Security, is a notable figure in the local tech scene.
Criticism of State-Backed Technology and Policies
Prior to his arrest, Kilin had used his Telegram channel to strongly oppose the state-backed messaging app Max, which is set to be pre-installed on all new smartphones in Russia starting in 2025, The Record Media has reported.
He reportedly flagged multiple vulnerabilities in the app, which lacks end-to-end encryption, and was subsequently blacklisted by its developers.
Kilin and other industry experts also spoke out against a proposed anti-cyberfraud bill that would criminalize the disclosure of security flaws and exploitation methods. His stance was meant to show a belief that restricting access to global security knowledge is detrimental to a civilized society.
Broader Implications of the Russian Cybersecurity Entrepreneur Arrested
Kilin's case is seen as another example of the growing pressure on Russia's technology sector, where criticism of government projects or policies can lead to severe legal consequences. The arrest has sent a chilling message through the tech community about the risks associated with public dissent and independent security research.
The Timur Kilin treason charges are not an isolated incident. They follow a pattern of Russian authorities targeting tech professionals and internet users for expressing dissenting views. In 2023, Ilya Sachkov, co-founder of the cybersecurity firm Group-IB, was sentenced to 14 years in prison on similar charges.
Last week, the U.S.,the U.K., and Australia sanctioned Russian hosting provider Media Land for supporting LockBit, BlackSuit, and Play Ransomware against the backdrop of Russia's evolving cybercrime ties.
In October, Russian authorities detained a group of young IT specialists accused of developing and distributing the Meduza infostealer.
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