This article is focused on analyzing dynamics of levels and issues of developing trust within modern Russian society, based on data from the RLMS-HSE. The main objective was evaluating peculiarities in the formation and distribution of generalized trust, which have been observed throughout the last decade of crisis. While performing the analysis, certain new positive shifts were revealed in levels of generalized trust, which have been observed within various socio-demographic groups, despite an increase in uncertainty in all areas of social life. The authors emphasize factors which contribute to and hinder the spread of trust. It is stressed that the most critical factor which contributes to Russian people’s increasing trust towards others is an increased sense of personal security. Analyzing a vast range of empirical data leads to the belief that generalized trust appears to be the most important condition necessary for consolidating the foundations of democratic life and further developing civil society. However, participating in the activities of democratic institutions and voluntary organizations of civil society do not necessarily become a source of increased trust towards other people.