Beware of the Trap: How You Can Be Drawn Into Crime Online

Imagine this: Someone messages you on Telegram or Discord, offering easy money—just complete a "task." Maybe it's setting fire to a utility box, filming it, and getting paid 20,000–30,000 rubles. Sounds simple, right? In reality, it's a trap that could land you in court—or even prison.

Yes, this really happens. Here's how.

How It Works

Certain individuals (often based abroad) deliberately seek to harm state infrastructure. Instead of recruiting adults, they target teenagers—assuming they're more naive, easily manipulated, and afraid to tell their parents.

They'll message you with lines like:

• "Want to earn quick cash? There's a quest."
• "Just burn a small box—no one gets hurt."
• "You'll be like a real-life hacker."
• "If you refuse, we'll leak your photos/data/chats."

Suddenly, you're not just chatting—you're involved in a real crime.

What Might They Ask You to Do?

• Buy a lighter, gasoline, or acetone
• Scout a location (cell tower, transformer box, etc.)
• Set it on fire and film it
• Send "proof" to the "handler"

They'll claim "it's just a cabinet, harmless"—but in reality, it's critical infrastructure (power, communications, transport). That means terrorism or sabotage charges.

What Happens If You Agree?

Real-life example:

A 17-year-old wanted money for a PlayStation. He was offered 30,000 rubles to torch a utility box. He did it—and was caught within 24 hours (cameras, thermal sensors, phone tracking). Now he faces up to 20 years in prison.

If you recruit others (friends, classmates), it's considered conspiracy—making the charges even worse.

"But I Didn't Know It Was a Crime!"

Not an excuse. The law is strict:

• Arson of property → Up to 5 years
• Targeting critical infrastructure → Up to 20 years
• Aiding (scouting, filming, buying supplies) → Up to 15 years
• Organized group involvement → Even harsher penalties

Legal age of responsibility: 14. You'll be tried as an adult.

Why Do Teens Fall for This?

• Wanting quick money
• Believing "it's anonymous"
• Thinking "it's just a joke/challenge"
• Fear of telling parents
• Blackmail or threats

This is exactly what criminals exploit.

What to Do If You're Contacted

• Never agree to any "task."
• Don't send money, photos, or videos.
• Tell a trusted adult immediately—better safe than in court.
• Screenshot threats as evidence.
• Report it to police or FSB. Even if you just show the chats, you'll be a witness, not a criminal.

This Isn't "Just a Prank"

The internet isn't a game. Real crimes start with a DM. Arson isn't a joke or a way to make cash—it's a felony, a trial, and possibly years behind bars.

If you want excitement, try sports, volunteering, coding, or blogging. These bring thrills, recognition, and even money—without ruining your life.