Binance Hands Over Client Data to Russian Authorities Amid Terrorism Financing Probe

Crypto exchange Binance provided Russian authorities with personal data and transaction history of its client Yuri Belenky, who was later accused of financing terrorism in support of Ukraine. The information obtained became part of the evidence base in a case involving transfers to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Azov Regiment. According to human rights group 'First Department', Binance handed over Belenky's full account trading history, as well as his passport scan, Bulgarian residence permit, photos, and other materials.

The exchange had exited Russia in 2023 after selling its business to CommEX, which shut down in March 2024. However, lawyers argued that Binance may not have been required to provide the data, citing EU data protection laws. The European Data Protection Board clarifies that a request from a public authority of a third country cannot automatically serve as a legal basis for transferring European personal data.

Belinky was initially accused of six transfers totaling 742.26 USDT in support of Ukraine, but the case file later added more transactions and amounts. Binance responded to Incrypted that it cooperates with law enforcement agencies worldwide in response to lawful information requests, subject to applicable legal requirements. The exchange stated that it does not enact or enforce laws, determine charges, or decide how governments use information in legal proceedings.