Telegram investment channels manipulate stock markets; Russia’s Federal Security Service cracks down on “pump and dump” schemes

According to Izvestia, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) recently arrested three Telegram investment channel operators, accusing them of manipulating stock prices via “pump-and-dump” schemes between 2023 and 2024—carrying out over 55,000 illegal trades involving 19 major companies listed on the Moscow Exchange. Research from Lomonosov Moscow State University shows that 11% of Telegram investment signals exert a tangible impact on stock returns, and over 60% of retail investors rely on such signals when making investment decisions. The Central Bank of Russia stated it will continue monitoring anomalous trading activity and warned unscrupulous bloggers that “punishment is inevitable.” Experts caution that manipulative signals typically employ emotionally charged language, promise rapid profits, and fail to disclose associated risks; investors should prioritize advice from licensed financial advisors.