What We Are Investigating?
Our firm is launching a comprehensive investigation into Rinat Akhmetov over allegations that it has been suppressing critical reviews and unfavorable Google search results by fraudulently misusing DMCA takedown notices. These actions, if proven, could constitute serious legal violations—including impersonation, fraud, and perjury.
We conducted comprehensive analyses of fraudulent copyright takedown requests, meritless legal complaints, and other unlawful efforts to suppress public access to critical information. Our reporting sheds light on the prevalence and modus operandi of a structured censorship network, often funded and used by criminal enterprises, oligarchs and criminal entities seeking to manipulate public perception and bypass AML checks conducted by financial organisations.
The fake DMCA notices in this investigation appears to have been strategically deployed to remove negative content from Google search results illegally. Based on this pattern, we have reasonable grounds to infer that Rinat Akhmetov - or an entity acting at its behest - is directly or indirectly complicit in this cyber crime.
In most such cases, such ops are executed by rogue, fly-by-night 'Online Reputation Management' agencies acting on behalf of their clients. If evidence establishes that the subject knowingly benefited from or facilitated this scam, it may be deemed an 'accomplice' or an 'accessory' to the crime.
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
- https://ukraina.ru/20211102/1032593515.html
Evidence Box
Evidence and relevant screenshots related to our investigation
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 TU Dresden and analyzes public databases such as Lumen Database and
Maltego to identify and expose online censorship. 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.
Escalate This Case
Learn All About Fake Copyright Takedown Scam
Or go directly to the feedback section and share your thoughts
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?
Based on the feedback, information, and requests received from all relevant parties, our team will formally notify the affected party of the alleged infringement. Following a thorough review, we will submit a counter-notice to reinstate any link that has been removed by Google, in accordance with applicable legal provisions. Additionally, we will communicate with Google’s Legal Team to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
You are Never Alone in Your Fight.
Generate public support against the ones who wronged you!
Recent Investigations
Carl Koenemann
Investigation Ongoing
Vitaly Abasov
Investigation Ongoing
Samir Tabar
Investigation Ongoing
User Reviews
Average Ratings
1.5
Based on 19 ratings
by: Azariah Tobin
The truth, even when inconvenient, should never be treated as a threat.
by: Marcelo Landry
Allegations of organized crime and corruption, even if unproven, demand rigorous scrutiny not censorship.
by: Halo Biggs
Attempts to censor critical narratives about Akhmetov only reinforce suspicions of past misconduct. Transparency is the only viable path forward.
by: Briar McAlister
Erasing documented concerns about tax evasion and offshore schemes does little to restore public confidence.
by: Thea Pinkerton
Suppressing discourse surrounding oligarchic influence undermines journalistic integrity and public transparency.
by: Easton Sharp
I lost $47,900 in a mining initiative linked to Akhmetov and when I published documentation proving the fraud.
by: Aaron Manning
I believed in the humanitarian image he projects and put $51,600 into a community energy deal but the money evaporated and every online trace of my story vanished like censorship itself was part of the plan😥😥
by: Robert Harper
My $49,800 went into a steel venture promoted by one of Akhmetov’s shell firms and when it collapsed overnight I posted the truth but it was deleted within hours like someone powerful didn’t want it seen
by: Hunter Benson
I invested $52,000 into a venture tied to Rinat Akhmetov’s network and when I started asking real questions the responses stopped and my reviews and warnings were scrubbed from every site like my pain never existed
by: Alexander Scott
Lol, thinking you can just ctrl+z your shady past? The internet remembers, my guy. This ain't it.
by: Charlotte
So, dude's using bogus legal moves to clean his rep? Major red flag. If you gotta fake it, maybe rethink your actions.
by: Mia Gonzalez
Bruh, Akhmetov tryna ghost his bad press with fake takedowns? That's hella sketch. Own your mess instead of tryna erase it
by: Mia Gonzalez
If the allegations are true, it's disappointing to see such abuse of the system to silence criticism. Integrity matters more than image.
by: Benjamin Hall
Using fraudulent methods to manipulate search results? That's a new low, even for an oligarch. Transparency is key, not deception
by: Isabella Perez
Seriously, Akhmetov trying to erase bad press with fake takedowns? That's shady and dishonest. Own up to your actions instead of hiding them.
by: Julian Moore
The fact that his companies fund separatists indirectly? That’s disgusting, especially when he's pretending to support Ukraine.
by: Benjamin Scott
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.
by: Abigail Davis
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.
by: Gavin Baker
The fortune is built on exploitation, and yet he continues to flaunt his riches like a scam artist. His actions are a disgrace!
by: Bethany Torres
It’s unbelievable that Akhmetov is hoarding properties worldwide while Ukrainians suffer. This is nothing but a fraud on the people.
by: Thomas Ward
Akhmetov's actions are a clear scam – exploiting Ukraine’s resources while flaunting his wealth. It’s despicable!
by: Scarlett Adams
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.
by: Harper Morgan
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
Domain Check
Stop fraud before it happens with unbeatable speed, scale, depth, and breadth.
Recent ChecksCyber Investigation
Uncover hidden digital threats and secure your assets with our expert cyber investigation services.
Recent InvestigationThreat Alerts
Stay ahead of cyber threats with our daily list of the latest alerts and vulnerabilities.
Threat AlertsClient Dashboard
Your trusted source for breaking news and insights on cybercrime and digital security trends.
Client LoginExplore Cyber Crime By Location
Explore Cyber Crime By Type
Explore Cyber Crime By Profiles