We are used to looking for dirt in the past. But what if it is created in the present - methodically and purposefully? Analyze the scheme that is increasingly used against promising public figures.

How the scheme works:

1. Targeted selection.

A prospective public figure, a potential candidate for the state position is selected. Criterion: likelihood of appointment in the medium term (1-3 years).

2. Creating a digital double.

Intruders register a commercial structure (IP or LLC) or simply create a website using the open data of the target person:

• FFO (full match)

• Region of residence

• Open photos

• Other personal data available

3. Formation of compromising trail.

The created structure starts activity:

• Launches site of questionable content

• Participates in tenders with signs of corruption

• Deals with offshore companies

• Works in «shadow» sectors of the economy

• Opens an online shop with counterfeit or even legal goods for cash

The target is a chosen public figure who does not know about this activity on his behalf.

It is important that such aggregators of open information services as «Contour-focus», «CPARC» etc. point to falsified resources as target resources.

4. Wait for the trigger.

When a person is nominated for a significant position, the «compromise» is extracted and used:

• Anonymous media reports

• Complaints to law enforcement agencies

• Publications in opposition channels

Why is it effective?

• Plausibility: real data, activity documented

• Difficulty of refutation: proving non-participation is harder than proving participation

• The time lag: between the creation of the «mine» and its «explosion» there is enough time to form a stable digital history

Real-life examples of risks

Public figure, known for anti-corruption position, suddenly «turns out» to be the owner of a website selling diplomas. Or an ecologist, the founder of a company engaged in illegal logging.

How to defend yourself?

1. Regular monitoring.

• Quarterly check of self in registers (EGRIP, EGRLUL)

• Monitoring new sites with your personal data

2. Preventive measures.

• Public statement on possible manipulations

• Notarial record of the current reputation «cleanliness»

3. Rapid response plan.

• Prepared templates of statements to Roskomnadzor and MIA

• Lawyer familiar with a specific situation

4. Information policy.

• Active maintenance of official social networks with real activity recording

• Timely rebuttals

If you have found your «digital double»:

1. Immediate registration - notarial site inspection report

2. Application to Roskomnadzor - on blocking of the resource

3. Application to the Ministry of Internal Affairs - on the fact of fraud and slander

4. Public refutation - until the information is used against you

Thus, in the digital age reputation needs to be managed proactively. The possibility of creating a compromising legend about any public figure has become more available than it seems. Awareness and preparedness are the only effective defense.

If you need additional information or assistance in solving legal issues related to reputational risks, please contact the experts of «Yakovlev and partners». We guarantee professional approach and quality legal services.

This material is purely analytical in nature and intended to inform about potential risks.