The U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) unsealed an indictment charging Russian national Aleksandr Viktorovich Ryzhenkov (Александр Викторович Рыженков) with using the BitPaymer ransomware variant to attack numerous victims in Texas and throughout the U.S. and hold their sensitive data for ransom. According to the indictment, beginning in at least June 2017, Ryzhenkov allegedly gained unauthorized access to the information stored on victims’ computer networks.
Key Points
- Russian national Aleksandr Ryzhenkov was charged with ransomware attacks on U.S. companies using the BitPaymer variant. He is wanted for his alleged involvement in ransomware attacks and money laundering activities.
- Ryzhenkov, a leading member of the Russian cybercrime organization Evil Corp, and his conspirators demanded millions in ransom by encrypting victims’ sensitive data.
- The U.S. Treasury Department added Ryzhenkov to its list of specially designated nationals, blocking U.S. financial transactions involving him.
Short Narrative
The U.S. DOJ has indicted Russian national Aleksandr Viktorovich Ryzhenkov for a series of ransomware attacks targeting companies in Texas and across the U.S. Using the BitPaymer ransomware, Ryzhenkov allegedly gained unauthorized access to computer systems, encrypted sensitive data, and demanded ransom to prevent the information from being released publicly. Despite the criminal’s attempts to extort millions, U.S. authorities have made it clear that cybercriminals will face serious consequences, adding Ryzhenkov to the Treasury Department’s sanctions list and blocking his access to U.S. financial systems.
Actionable Insight
Ryzhenkov’s indictment underscores the growing ransomware threat from Russian-linked hackers. Businesses must prioritize cybersecurity to avoid becoming targets, as attacks are costly whether or not a ransom is paid.
Call for Information
If you have any information about the Russian Evil Corp cybercrime organization, its members, and activities, please share it with us through our whistleblower system, Whistle42.
