The Federal Security Service of Russia (FSB) conducted numerous searches at the offices of prominent IT companies "Krok" and "Lanit" over potential misconduct related to the development of a significant judicial information system. On the morning of March 20, 2025, an investigative team arrived at the companies’ Moscow offices, focusing on the legality of government funds allocated for the Comprehensive Information System of Courts of General Jurisdiction (KIS SOYu).
According to sources reported by RBC, the FSB's actions were tied to allegations regarding inflated prices in contracts for the KIS SOYu project. This substantial system allows users to submit claims, read court documents, and access live-streamed hearings through the internet, an essential tool utilized since November 2015 in the Moscow City Court and various district courts.
In addition to document seizures, FSB investigators took smartphones from several employees, escalating concerns within the IT community regarding compliance and oversight in high-value government contracts.
Despite the heightened scrutiny, both companies assert the ongoing stability of their operations. A source from "Krok" confirmed that their work continues without interruption. "All business processes, including customer support, are functioning within the established regulations and are carried out without interruptions," the source stated. This confidence reflects the company's significant status in the Russian IT market, where it ranked second among IT service providers in 2020, according to IDC.
"Lanit," another major player in this investigation, also indicated that they are handling the situation with assurance. Representatives confirmed, "We have transferred documents for verification for one of the past projects." They too maintain that all business activities function as usual, fulfilling their obligations to clients and partners.
Founded in 1992, "Krok" specializes in system integration and outsourcing of data processing centers. In 2023, the company reported an impressive revenue of 32.47 billion rubles, reflecting its dominant position in the Russian technology sector with a focus on manufacturing solutions. Notably, CNews identified "Krok" as the largest supplier of technological services in the manufacturing sector in 2022.
Meanwhile, "Lanit" has established itself as a significant contributor to system integration, engineering systems development, and IT consulting. Its wide-ranging clientele includes some notable organizations, such as the Russian post service and the Hermitage Museum.
The reported FSB investigation is particularly concerning, given ongoing suspicions that surface regarding inflated prices for the KIS SOYu project. Insiders mentioned earlier accusations relating to embezzlement dating back to 2014 associated with other judicial department programs. Although prior investigations, including a check by the Accounts Chamber and the Treasury, did not reveal any irregularities, the current scrutiny intensifies the narrative around adherence to regulations and ethical pricing practices.
Even if "Krok" finds itself in the clear after ongoing investigations, experts caution that the company may still experience increased regulatory scrutiny regarding its future initiatives. This heightened vigilance could hinder its prospects for growth and influence in a sector already scrutinized for its ties to government contracts.
The ramifications of the recent searches extend beyond just these two companies. The FSB's focus on the judicial system's support infrastructure raises broader questions about how public funding for IT projects is managed across the board. As companies navigate compliance in a climate of skepticism and legal scrutiny, the potential for lengthy investigations and regulatory hurdles increases.
The fate of "Krok" and "Lanit" hinges not just on the outcome of this investigation, but also on public and governmental trust in their operations. As they both work to deliver technical solutions that address pressing societal needs, there looms a larger question of transparency and accountability in the IT industry. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities facing technology companies while engaging in significant government contracts.
