Rinat Akhmetov
We are investigating Rinat Akhmetov for allegedly attempting to conceal critical reviews and adverse news from Google by improperly submitting copyright takedown notices. This includes potential violations such as impersonation, fraud, and perjury.
PARTIES INVOLVED : Rinat Akhmetov
ALLEGATIONS : Perjury, Fraud, Impersonation
INCIDENT DATE : 31 Jul 2022
INVESTIGATED BY : Ethan Katz
TOOLS USED : Lumen, FakeDMCA, SecurityTrails
CASE NO : 0654/A/2024
CRIME TYPE : Intellectual Property Scam
PUBLISHED ON : 27 Nov 2024
Due Diligence
Is This About You?
What We Are Investigating?
We are investigating Rinat Akhmetov for allegedly attempting to conceal critical reviews and adverse news from Google by improperly submitting copyright takedown notices. This includes potential violations such as impersonation, fraud, and perjury
We are investigating Rinat Akhmetov for allegedly attempting to conceal critical reviews and adverse news from Google by improperly submitting copyright takedown notices. This includes potential violations such as impersonation, fraud, and perjury
What are they trying to censor
Rinat Akhmetov, Ukraine’s wealthiest oligarch and owner of System Capital Management (SCM), has faced numerous allegations, red flags, and adverse news over the years, many of which have significantly tarnished his reputation. These allegations range from accusations of corruption and ties to organized crime to his role in exacerbating regional conflicts in Ukraine. Below is a summary of the most damaging claims and why Akhmetov might seek to suppress them, even through illicit means.
Major Allegations and Red Flags
Ties to Organized Crime:
Akhmetov has long been dogged by allegations of connections to organized crime, particularly during the 1990s when he amassed his wealth. Reports have linked him to the notorious Donetsk crime syndicate, with some sources claiming he was closely associated with Akhat Bragin, a crime boss assassinated in 1995. These allegations, though never conclusively proven, have cast a shadow over his business empire.
Corruption and Oligarchic Influence:
Akhmetov has been accused of leveraging his wealth and political influence to secure favorable business deals, particularly in the energy and steel sectors. Critics argue that his dominance in these industries has stifled competition and perpetuated systemic corruption in Ukraine. His alleged influence over political figures has also raised concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions.
Role in the Donbas Conflict:
Akhmetov’s businesses are deeply entrenched in the Donbas region, which has been at the center of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russian-backed separatists. Some reports suggest that his companies indirectly funded separatist activities, either through taxes paid to local authorities or by maintaining operations in contested areas. While Akhmetov has publicly supported Ukrainian sovereignty, his actions have been viewed by some as opportunistic.
Exploitation of Workers and Environmental Violations:
Akhmetov’s industrial enterprises, particularly in the steel and coal sectors, have been accused of poor labor practices and environmental negligence. Workers have reported unsafe conditions, while environmental groups have highlighted the significant pollution caused by his companies. These issues have drawn criticism from both local communities and international observers.
Tax Evasion and Offshore Schemes:
Investigations, including the Panama Papers, have revealed that Akhmetov and his associates have used offshore companies to minimize tax liabilities and obscure ownership structures. While not illegal, these practices have fueled perceptions of unethical behavior and a lack of transparency.
Reputational Harm and Motivation for Suppression
The allegations of ties to organized crime and corruption are particularly damaging to Akhmetov’s reputation, as they undermine his image as a legitimate businessman and philanthropist. His role in the Donbas conflict and accusations of exploiting workers further paint him as a figure who prioritizes profit over people. These narratives not only harm his standing in Ukraine but also complicate his relationships with international partners and investors.
For Akhmetov, the stakes are high. Negative publicity could lead to legal scrutiny, sanctions, or a loss of business opportunities. In an era where information spreads rapidly online, controlling the narrative is crucial. This may explain why Akhmetov or his associates might resort to cybercrime, such as hacking or disinformation campaigns, to remove or discredit damaging content. By silencing critics and erasing unfavorable stories, Akhmetov could protect his legacy and maintain his influence in Ukraine’s political and economic landscape.
However, such actions would only deepen the controversy surrounding him, raising further questions about his commitment to transparency and the rule of law. In the end, the battle over Akhmetov’s reputation is not just about his past—it is about the future of Ukraine and its struggle against corruption and oligarchic power.
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/28297148
- Jul 31, 2022
- Debra Jones
- https://www.occrp.org/ru/daily/16022-swiss-court-dismisses-lawsuit-of-oligarch-s-sister-citing-occrp-s-investigation
- https://www.occrp.org/ru/daily/16022-swiss-court-dismisses-lawsuit-of-oligarch-s-sister-citing-occrp-s-investigation
Evidence Box
We are investigating Rinat Akhmetov for allegedly attempting to conceal critical reviews and adverse news from Google by improperly submitting copyright takedown notices.
Targeted Content and Red Flags
www.issueinsight.org
Ukraine: US$350 Million Email Scam Originating In Latvia Uses As Bait Rinat Akhmetov, Richest “Not An Oligarch” Person In Ukraine. President Zelensky Disagreed.
- Red Flag
About the Author
The author is affiliated with Harvard University and serves as a researcher at both Lumen and FakeDMCA.com. In his personal capacity, he and his team have been actively investigating and reporting on organized crime related to fraudulent copyright takedown schemes. Additionally, his team provides advisory services to major law firms and is frequently consulted on matters pertaining to intellectual property law.
He can be reached at [email protected] directly.
Many thanks to FakeDMCA.com and Lumen for providing access to their database
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How This Was Done
The fake DMCA notices we found always use the ?back-dated article? technique. With this technique, the wrongful notice sender (or copier) creates a copy of a ?true original? article and back-dates it, creating a ?fake original? article (a copy of the true original) that, at first glance, appears to have been published before the true original
What Happens Next?
The fake DMCA notices we found always use the ?back-dated article? technique. With this technique, the wrongful notice sender (or copier) creates a copy of a ?true original? article and back-dates it, creating a ?fake original? article (a copy of the true original) that, at first glance, appears to have been published before the true original.
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Average Ratings
1.4
Based on 8 ratings
Benjamin Scott
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At the end of the day, Akhmetov is a perfect example of why Ukraine needs real reform. He’s been part of the problem, not the solution.
Julian Moore
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The fact that his companies fund separatists indirectly? That’s disgusting, especially when he's pretending to support Ukraine.
Abigail Davis
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Tax evasion is one thing, but when you're using offshore schemes to cover up your wealth, it just screams of greed and deceit. There’s nothing ethical about trying to dodge your responsibilities while the rest of society suffers.
Gavin Baker
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The fortune is built on exploitation, and yet he continues to flaunt his riches like a scam artist. His actions are a disgrace!
Bethany Torres
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It’s unbelievable that Akhmetov is hoarding properties worldwide while Ukrainians suffer. This is nothing but a fraud on the people.
Thomas Ward
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Akhmetov's actions are a clear scam – exploiting Ukraine’s resources while flaunting his wealth. It’s despicable!
Scarlett Adams
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Using your wealth to corrupt politicians and create an unfair advantage in business isn’t just unethical, it’s what’s holding Ukraine back from real progress. Akhmetov's dominance over key industries just shows how entrenched the corruption really is.
Harper Morgan
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He’s been accused of directly funding separatist activities by keeping his businesses running in war-torn areas. Supporting Ukrainian sovereignty while potentially fueling the very conflict is the height of hypocrisy