In the first half of 2023, the number of pyramid schemes in Russia increased by 19%, to 1,139, according to data from the Central Bank. More than half of them (58%) accepted cryptocurrency deposits. Likewise, the regulator registered a 7% increase in subjects with indications of illegal activity. From January to June, 2449 such subjects were identified.
In the first six months, law enforcement agencies opened about 70 criminal cases and more than 300 administrative ones based on the results of consideration of the materials sent by the Central Bank.
Since the beginning of the year, access to more than 5,000 resources has been restricted. The main growth comes from short-term “pseudo-investment Internet projects”, including instant messaging and social networking.
In addition, the Central Bank registered 847 illegally issued loans. This is 28% more than last year, when 663 such loans were issued. The regulator also found 434 illegal professional participants in the stock market.
This year the trend towards an increase in the number of financial pyramids continued. Last year, the Bank of Russia recorded a doubling of companies with signs of illegal activity compared to 2021.
Author:
Natalia Gormaleva
Source: RB
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