Investigative Report: Essay Mills and Russian Attack Drones

Investigative Report: Essay Mills and Russian Attack Drones

A $25 million global essay mill network, powered by Google Ads, has been linked to Synergy University in Russia — an institution directly involved in developing combat drones for the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine.

The Rise of Essay Mills Through Google Ads

Websites like Nerdify and Geekly Hub dominate search results for academic cheating services. Despite claiming to uphold an “honor code,” investigations revealed they provide full essays for students. Google prohibits ads that enable dishonest behavior, yet the network has repeatedly resurfaced under new corporate identities in Cyprus, Malta, Hong Kong, and the UK.

Corporate Shells and Global Reach

Companies such as Proglobal Solutions LTD, AW Tech Limited, and Geekly Solutions Ltd were shut down, but new entities like OK Marketing LTD and Two Sigma Solutions LTD continue to operate. Founders Oleksandr Korsukov and Olekszij Pokatilo have been active in the essay-writing industry since 2009, outsourcing work to low-cost writers in Kenya, the Philippines, Pakistan, Russia, and Ukraine.

Connections to Synergy University

Investigations reveal ties between essay mill founders and Filip Perkon, a London-based entrepreneur with deep links to Synergy University, Russia’s largest private education provider. Synergy’s president, Vadim Lobov, is a Kremlin insider known for his close ties to President Vladimir Putin. The university has faced accusations of scamming international students while simultaneously promoting nationalist propaganda.

Synergy’s Role in Drone Development

Beyond education, Synergy University operates websites like synergy.bot, openly advertising its involvement in building combat drones to aid Russian forces. This connection highlights how revenue from essay mills may indirectly support Russia’s military-industrial complex.

Global Implications and Ethical Concerns

The investigation underscores how academic dishonesty networks intersect with geopolitical conflicts. Students seeking shortcuts may unknowingly fund military operations abroad. The case raises urgent questions about Google’s ad policies, international regulation of essay mills, and the exploitation of vulnerable students worldwide.

Conclusion

This report reveals a disturbing synergy: essay mills, corporate shell games, and Russian drone development are interconnected. What appears to be a simple academic cheating service is part of a larger web of influence, money laundering, and military support tied to Kremlin insiders.