Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During the joint anti-terrorist exercises "Vostok-Antiterror 2024," for the first time, special services from CIS countries practiced cooperation in detecting cryptocurrencies used for financing terrorist activities. This was reported by General-Colonel Evgeny Sysoev, Head of the CIS Anti-Terrorist Center (ATC), before the final stage of the exercises, which is taking place in Uzbekistan.

In the first phase of the exercises, held from 27 to 29 August across seven countries (Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan), several new elements were tested, including the detection and prevention of terrorism financing through cryptocurrencies. To achieve this, financial intelligence units from the CIS and the international center for assessing risks of money laundering and terrorism financing were involved. Monitoring of terrorists’ cryptocurrency transactions was conducted using the "Transparent Blockchain" service.

A new element of the exercises included joint cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure. According to the exercise scenario, "terrorists" attempted a cyber-attack on a hydroelectric power station in Uzbekistan. National Computer Incident Response Centers identified elements of the "attackers’" malicious infrastructure within national internet segments.

The exercises also addressed issues related to the detection of militants crossing CIS borders. Eight simulated terrorist groups were involved, tasked with infiltrating various critical infrastructure sites to test their physical security. Common information systems were used, and a coordination headquarters was established at the ATC.

"All 25 training targets were established and detained, demonstrating the high level of coordination and professionalism of the competent authorities involved in the exercises," emphasized Sysoev.