Introduction. This article examines the foundations of anti-corruption ideology as an integral part of the mechanism of criminological counteraction to corruption, by defining its functions, levels of formation, and necessary measures that promote the spread of anti-corruption ideology in contrast to the existing corruption ideology in society, which determines its dominance in ideological competition. The relevance of this study lies in the definition of ideology as a necessary element of the mechanism for countering such a negative socio-legal phenomenon as corruption, which dominates and permeates all other structural elements. The formation of an ideological foundation not only contributes to the fight against corruption as the most socially dangerous manifestation of corruption, but also enhances the effectiveness of the state's anti-corruption policy as a whole, as ideology, as a part of society's culture, requires unity and reinforcement in its positive direction. Methods. The study used both general scientific methods – dialectical; methods of analysis, synthesis, modeling; and private scientific methods: statistical, sociological, comparative-legal, functional. Results. In the proposed mechanism of criminological counteraction to corruption, ideology is defined as the initially dominant structural element that prevails (but does not diminish its significance) over other elements of the mechanism under consideration, such as doctrinal, conceptual, tactical, and strategic foundations, as well as the subjects and objects of criminological influence, which ensures the unity of anti-corruption policy and the effectiveness of the measures taken. The author presents and substantiates the anti-corruption ideology in the form of its main ideas, functions, and levels of formation; and defines measures that promote its priority and supremacy in competition with the ideology of corruption.