The SBU has exposed hackers who created a fake "Reserve+" app to evade mobilization
The Security Service of Ukraine, in collaboration with the National Police, dismantled a hacker group that had developed a paid version of the "Reserve+" app. According to law enforcement officials, more than 4,000 conscripts used the fake service.
“On the surface, the cloned app completely mimicked the official app of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. Access to the ‘clone’ was paid and cost 1,200 hryvnias per month.
In the pseudo-app’s online account, draft dodgers could independently change their account information and “extend” their deferment from conscription.
After making the necessary changes, those subject to military service presented fake electronic documents to staff at the Territorial Recruitment Centers and the National Police during inspections,” the investigation revealed.
It is known that more than 4,000 conscripts used the fake app in an attempt to avoid mobilization.
Searches and Notices of Suspicion
During the searches, law enforcement officers seized cell phones, flash drives, bank cards, SIM cards, and other data storage devices containing evidence of illegal activity.
At the same time, law enforcement officials blocked the fake app.
Two detainees have already been notified of charges under several articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine:
- Part 1 of Article 114-1 – obstructing the lawful activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations during a state of emergency;
- Part 3 of Article 358 – forgery and use of forged documents, seals, stamps, and forms, committed by a group of persons acting in concert.
A pre-trial investigation is currently underway to identify all participants in the criminal scheme and bring them to justice. The suspects face up to eight years in prison, according to the SBU.
As a reminder, the SBU, the State Bureau of Investigation (DBR), and the National Police have uncovered 11 more schemes to evade mobilization in various regions of Ukraine.
