Message from Ukraine’s Security Service
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has urged the public to refrain from posting photos and videos of enemy strikes online, particularly those showing attacks on military facilities, critical infrastructure, and air defense operations. This precaution aims to prevent inadvertently assisting the enemy and to protect the lives of Ukrainian citizens.
The SBU warns that such footage is frequently exploited by Russian propagandists and military forces to adjust and plan follow-up strikes. Sharing this type of content may be considered a criminal offense, carrying severe penalties. Under Article 114-2 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, unauthorized dissemination of information about Ukrainian Armed Forces’ movements and transmitting data to the aggressor state can result in imprisonment for up to 12 years.
Legal Consequences for Posting Sensitive Material
The SBU actively monitors and prosecutes individuals who publish such sensitive material online. Earlier, the agency also requested the public not to share images of checkpoints and air defense systems ahead of Independence Day celebrations. "We emphasize that sharing this kind of content may be treated by law enforcement as a crime with strict consequences," the Security Service stated.
The agency called on Ukrainians to act responsibly, avoid assisting the enemy, and not put others at risk. This appeal comes in the wake of recent ballistic missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and the surrounding region, which tragically claimed three lives, including that of a child.
This advisory is part of a broader information security strategy during wartime, recognizing that any information can be weaponized against the state. Given the recent assaults on Ukrainian cities, it is crucial for citizens to understand the dangers linked to sharing sensitive content and to follow government recommendations to safeguard themselves and those around them. With the ongoing threat from the aggressor increasing, vigilance in handling information is becoming essential for every Ukrainian.
In light of the ongoing threat posed by misinformation, it is essential for citizens to remain vigilant not only about the sharing of sensitive materials but also regarding the rising number of fraudulent websites and social media accounts targeting personal data. For more insights on how these deceptive platforms operate and the measures being taken to combat them, read our detailed report on the surge of Russian fake websites.