In one of the largest ransomware cybercrime cases, two Russian nationals have pleaded guilty to participating in the notorious LockBit ransomware group. At its peak, this group was considered the most prolific and destructive ransomware variant globally. This group is known for launching attacks on various entities, including businesses, hospitals, schools, and even government agencies in the United States and internationally.
The U.S. Justice Department has indicted Russian national Dimitry Yuryevich Khoroshev, also known under aliases "LockBitSupp" and "LockBit," for his central role in the creation and operation of the notorious LockBit ransomware. Since its inception in September 2019, LockBit has evolved into one of the most destructive ransomware variants, impacting over 2,500 victims across 120 countries and causing widespread financial havoc.
On May 16, 2023, Mikhail Matveev, a Russian national, was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) for creating and spreading multiple ransomware strains with estimated losses of up to $200 million for the victims. At the same time, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has indicted Matveev on various charges. The U.S. State Department is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction.