The Samara regional office of the Federal Security Service has opened a criminal case against a design engineer employed by AvtoVAZ, one of Russia’s leading automotive manufacturers. The investigation centers on allegations that the engineer disclosed information deemed a trade secret to third parties, compromising confidential data entrusted to him in the course of his work. The report from the regional administration and the FSB was circulated by the national information agency TASS, noting that the matter carries potential penalties under Russian law.
According to official statements, the engineer at JSC AvtoVAZ, an organization designated as strategic to the Russian economy, allegedly acted out of personal gain. The information in question was described as a commercial secret that should have remained protected within the company. The regional authorities emphasized that the disclosure involved information related to the engineer’s professional tasks, making the breach a serious offense with broad implications for corporate security and national industrial interests.
The incident has led to a criminal case being initiated under Part 3 of Article 183 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. The article covers unlawful receipt, use, or disclosure of commercial, tax, or bank secret information and prescribes potential imprisonment of up to five years for those found guilty. Investigators are actively gathering evidence and working to identify all individuals who may be involved, as well as the full circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.
As the investigation unfolds, analysts and industry observers are paying close attention to the implications for AvtoVAZ and the broader automotive sector in Russia. Trade secret protection is a critical issue for manufacturers operating in competitive markets, where even seemingly small disclosures can undermine competitive advantage, affect supply chains, and influence partnerships. The authorities have stressed the importance of safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring that access to proprietary information is strictly controlled according to established security protocols.
In related industry news, AvtoVAZ has previously announced developments around its vehicle lineup, including ongoing evaluations of features such as heated steering wheel components. Observers note that secure handling of engineering data remains essential as the company pursues product innovations and market expansion. The current case underscores the ongoing balance between technological advancement and the protection of confidential information within major manufacturing operations.
The investigation continues as authorities review communications, access logs, and other material related to the alleged breach. The outcome will depend on the evidence collected and the legal processes that follow. Stakeholders across the automotive sector will be watching closely for any judicial decisions that may set precedents for how trade secrets are protected and prosecuted in cases involving strategic enterprises and their engineers. This evolving situation reflects broader concerns about data security, corporate governance, and responsible disclosure practices in a high-stakes manufacturing environment.