Online games have become an ideal environment for recruiting young terrorists, according to the Investigative Committee of Russia

The Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Russia, Alexander Bastrykin, stated that online games are increasingly being used by criminals to recruit teenagers. According to him, gaming platforms and built-in chats allow them to establish trusting relationships with children, gradually involving them in illegal activities.

Speaking at the International Youth Legal Forum in St. Petersburg, the head of the Investigative Committee noted that initially, teenagers are offered to perform harmless tasks, but then, through threats, blackmail, or promises of reward, they are persuaded to commit more serious crimes, including sabotage and arson.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law in November 2025 that significantly strengthens the punishment for sabotage. Inciting, recruiting, or involving a minor in committing such crimes guarantees punishment up to life imprisonment.