Binance Shares Client Data with Moscow Amid Ukraine Crypto Donations Probe

Binance, one of the world's largest crypto exchanges, has faced scrutiny over its handling of user data. According to recent documents, Binance provided Russian authorities with a user's transaction records and personal details after it claimed to have left Russia in 2023.

The case involves Yuri Belenkiy, a 49-year-old Russian IT worker who was arrested in September 2025 for allegedly sending over $700 in crypto to Ukrainian fundraising groups. Binance shared the user's records with Russian investigators through its compliance email channel, including details such as his date of birth, home address, phone number, passport information, and Bulgarian residency permit.

Binance defended its decision by stating that it cooperates with lawful requests from law enforcement globally, subject to applicable legal, privacy, and regulatory requirements. However, the incident has raised questions about how user data can be shared after an exchange leaves a market.