Security researchers from RTM Group report a surge in illicit online advertising tied to Russian companies, where unauthorized buyers post banners and threaten companies with fines unless payments are made. The findings, shared with socialbites.ca, outline a growing tactic used by scammers to disrupt ad campaigns and squeeze money from legitimate businesses.
Starting in September 2023, Russian authorities began imposing fines ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 rubles for violations of online advertising labeling rules. The law requires advertisers to obtain identifiers for promotional content from designated data operators appointed by Roskomnadzor and to provide reports on ad performance, budgets, and reach. These measures aim to improve transparency and accountability in digital advertising.
RTM Group notes that since the start of the month, scammers have been pushing advertisements on behalf of various companies without the required labeling. They operate through social media accounts and instant messaging platforms registered to virtual mobile numbers and gray SIM cards, exploiting the anonymity of online networks. In the first days of September, analysts recorded hundreds of such cases, indicating a noticeable spike in criminal activity tied to ad placement.
To pressure companies into paying fines, attackers demand sums between 100,000 and 150,000 rubles. RTM Group points out that the technical nature of the internet can complicate rapid identification of the actual poster, complicating enforcement actions for violators. This challenge underscores the need for robust verification and rapid response protocols within organizations handling online advertising.
Experts at RTM Group advise calm, methodical responses for businesses facing this type of blackmail. Each incident is considered separately by the relevant regulatory bodies, and individuals behind such schemes are unlikely to face punishment without concrete evidence. If necessary, the matter can proceed to court to challenge the organizer’s actions and the basis for any claimed violations.
When threats arise, the recommended course is to address the advertising issue directly. If false ads appear on social platforms, organizations should contact the platform administrators to request removal of the posts. For ads located on other websites, reporting the fraudulent activity to Roskomnadzor is advised to seek a block on the resource involved. This approach helps protect brand integrity while ensuring that enforcement channels are used correctly and effectively.
In a broader warning, RTM Group cautions that scammers can steal user credentials without resorting to viruses or phishing sites, exploiting legitimate login processes and surface-level trust. Businesses are urged to strengthen account security, monitor unusual activity, and implement multi-factor authentication to reduce the risk of unauthorized ad actions and credential compromise. The emphasis is on proactive defense, rapid containment, and clear procedural steps for suspected fraud cases.
Overall, the report highlights a shift in how ad-related extortion operates within the digital landscape. It stresses the importance of clear labeling, regulatory compliance, and vigilant monitoring of campaign performance. By staying informed about evolving tactics and maintaining robust controls, organizations can minimize exposure to these scams and uphold the integrity of their advertising efforts. [RTM Group, 2024]