Close Protection in Moscow

Moscow presents a unique security environment where geopolitical factors, regulatory complexity, and surveillance concerns are more significant than conventional criminal threats.

The security landscape

The primary security considerations in Moscow are geopolitical rather than criminal. International sanctions, diplomatic tensions, and the regulatory environment create challenges for foreign businesses operating in Russia. The extensive state surveillance infrastructure means corporate travellers should maintain strict communications security.

Street crime exists but is lower than many P1 cities. The main risks are targeted surveillance of foreign business visitors and the complex regulatory environment that can create unexpected legal exposure.

Our operations in Moscow

We maintain a network of Russian-licensed operators who meet our vetting standards. Moscow assignments focus on executive protection, secure transport, and communications security awareness. Service availability may be affected by current international sanctions and regulatory changes.

For country-level regulations and licensing requirements, see our security services in Russia. Our bodyguard hire team deploys vetted operators in Moscow at 24-hour notice.

Risk ratings and crime profile

OSAC rates Moscow as high severity. the US State Department has this at Level 4. FCDO advises against all travel (parts of the city).

The primary documented crime types in Moscow are pickpocketing, mugging, drink spiking, unregistered taxi robbery. FCDO warns about drink spiking leading to robbery (victims left unconscious outside, life-threatening in winter). Criminals pose as police officers to rob tourists. Unregistered taxis dangerous. Racial attacks possible against African/Asian descent visitors.

The terrorism threat level is assessed as very likely. Operators and corporate visitors should be aware of soft-target attack risk at hotels, transport hubs, and crowded venues.

Ground transport

Poor road conditions outside main highways. Do not drive alone at night. Do not pick up hitchhikers. Traffic police frequently stop drivers for spot checks.

Frequent and unpredictable flight delays/diversions/cancellations due to drone attacks. Passport theft reported at Moscow airports. No direct flights to UK or EU.

Registered taxi apps only. Metro for city travel. Never flag down taxis or share with strangers.

Area guidance

Lower-risk zones for accommodation and meetings: Central tourist areas in daylight (Red Square, Kremlin area); Tverskaya district; Upscale hotel districts.

Areas to avoid or approach with additional caution: Railway stations at night; Outskirts and industrial areas; Areas near airports during drone attacks.

Police and private security

Police conduct random passport checks and may detain for 48 hours. Foreign nationals may be targeted for bribes. Fake police scam exists. Policing is effective but authoritarian. FCDO’s ability to help detained British nationals is extremely limited.

FCDO advises against all travel. Executive protection operations in Russia are complicated by sanctions, political risk, and limited Western provider presence. Russian security firms dominate. Foreign security operators face severe legal restrictions. Any security operation requires awareness of state surveillance.

The current operating environment for foreign principals

The sanctions environment and legal changes since 2022 have materially altered the operating picture for foreign company personnel in Russia. Dual nationals face specific legal risk and a number have been detained. Personnel from countries with active sanctions programmes are at higher risk of administrative harassment and questioning. Individuals working in sectors subject to export controls should carry current legal advice on their specific activities before entering Russian territory.

Close protection in Russia currently operates exclusively through Russian-licensed firms. Western providers with Russian-language capability can coordinate with local firms where permitted under applicable sanctions, but any security engagement with a Russian provider requires legal review of the sanctions implications for the client organisation before contracting. Communications security is the first priority for any foreign principal operating in Moscow: assume all phone and email communications are subject to monitoring by state security services, and apply encrypted channels for any commercially sensitive content. For the full device security protocol relevant to this environment, see our trade secrets and international travel guide. For the FSB border inspection authority and clean device protocol, see our executive digital security guide. For contingency and evacuation planning relevant to the current Russia environment, see our country evacuation planning guide.