Ukrainian Authorities Shut Down VPN Service Granting Access to Russian Websites

In the Khmelnytskyi region of Ukraine, law enforcement has shut down a VPN service that provided access to Russian websites, bypassing government-imposed sanctions. The organizer, a 28-year-old man, had been operating the service since 2022, enabling access to more than 48 million Runet IP addresses. The network handled over 100 gigabytes of data daily.

To run the project, the suspect set up an autonomous server room in his apartment and rented servers in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Russia. He promoted the service through Telegram channels, specialized online communities, and international IT platforms.

Background: Sanctions and Internet Restrictions

Due to restrictions and sanctions imposed by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council (NSDC), access to Runet is prohibited. As a result, Ukrainian internet providers block access to Russian platforms from within the country.

Police Investigation and Charges

Police conducted searches in Khmelnytskyi and Zhytomyr, seizing server equipment, computers, and mobile devices containing evidence of illegal activity. Investigators are working to identify possible accomplices and sources of funding for the service. Authorities are also considering whether the suspect has ties to intelligence agencies.

The individual has been charged under Article 361 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—unauthorized interference with information systems during martial law. He faces up to 15 years in prison and a ban on holding certain positions for up to 3 years.