Former Banker Faces Criminal Charges for Deleting WhatsApp Messages in FCA Investigation

9 September 2019: A former banker at VTB is facing legal action, brought by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), after he was found to have deleted WhatsApp messages. 

Konstantin Vishnyak pleaded not guilty to one count of destroying documents that he allegedly knew to be relevant to an investigation. It is alleged that he deleted the WhatsApp application on his mobile phone after it came to light that he was required to provide records from it to the FCA to assist with their investigation. This is the first case in which the regulator has charged an individual with the crime under the Financial Services and Markets Act. 

If found guilty, Vishnyak could face up to two years imprisonment. The case was heard at Westminster Magistrates’ Court and Vishnyak has been bailed until an appearance at Southwark Crown Court next month.