Recruitment via Social Media: How Russian Intelligence Targets Teenagers and How to Prevent It
The terrorist attack in Ivano-Frankivsk was orchestrated by Russian intelligence, according to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). It was carried out by two teenagers, aged 15 and 17. Both reportedly found the “job” through a Telegram channel where they were lured with promises of “easy money” and given specific instructions.
According to investigators, the boys were promised $1,700 to manufacture homemade explosives and two explosive devices. They documented the entire process on video, following instructions from their handlers. On the evening of March 11, while the teenagers were transporting one of the devices to a target location, it was remotely detonated. Law enforcement reports that this was an attempt by Russian intelligence to eliminate all witnesses. As a result, the 17-year-old died on the spot, and the 15-year-old accomplice sustained severe injuries.
This shocking case made headlines across Ukraine, but it’s far from the first time the Russian FSB has used children via social media — for distributing anti-Ukrainian leaflets, setting fire to soldiers’ vehicles, or planting fake bombs at government institutions.
In wartime, such actions are treated as sabotage or terrorism — extremely serious crimes that adults must do everything they can to prevent.
How does the enemy lure teenagers?
- By promoting “attractive job offers” with high pay for supposedly simple tasks through social media and messaging apps;
- By posting fake job ads offering money in exchange for gathering information on strategic targets;
- Through blackmail and intimidation, using personal data to coerce cooperation;
- Through ideological influence by spreading propaganda materials.
Cyber police urge parents and educators to:
- Talk to children about the dangers of online recruitment and the severe criminal liability for sabotage;
- Monitor their online activity and social media connections when possible;
- Ensure they comply with curfew regulations;
- Immediately report any attempts to recruit minors to the police by calling 102.