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bunee
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June 17, 2023
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Lockbit Ransomware Hacker Arrested
- Lockbit ransomware hacker arrested and charged with extortion that cost victims millions of dollars.
- The hacker, a Russian national, was arrested while on vacation in South Korea.
- The Lockbit ransomware group is known for using double extortion techniques, meaning they not only encrypt the victim’s files but also threaten to release sensitive information if they don’t pay the ransom.
- The arrest was a joint effort between law enforcement agencies in South Korea, the United States, and Canada.
This is a major win for law enforcement agencies in their battle against ransomware attacks. Lockbit is one of the most active ransomware groups, and their tactics have caused significant financial harm to victims. Hopefully, this arrest will discourage other ransomware groups from engaging in similar illegal activities.
The Tale of a Problematic FBI Informant
- A recent report sheds light on the troubling behavior of an FBI informant who was supposed to be gathering information on an Islamic militant group in the US.
- The informant, a convicted fraudster, ended up financially exploiting members of the group and even convinced one to marry her for immigration purposes.
- The FBI reportedly paid the informant $854,460 for her work, despite multiple red flags being raised about her behavior.
- This incident highlights the need for more oversight and accountability when it comes to the use of informants by law enforcement agencies.
While the use of informants can be a valuable tool in law enforcement, it’s important to ensure that they are acting ethically and not exploiting the individuals they are meant to be gathering information on. This story is a reminder of the potential dangers of unchecked informant behavior.
North Korea’s Big Crypto Heist
- A report by cybersecurity firm Recorded Future reveals details of a massive cryptocurrency theft by North Korean hackers.
- The hackers stole approximately $1.75 billion worth of cryptocurrency from exchanges and other targets between January 2017 and September 2021.
- The funds are believed to have been used to fund North Korea’s nuclear weapons program and other government initiatives.
- The report also highlights North Korea’s use of cryptocurrency as a means of evading international sanctions.
This is yet another example of cybercrime being used to fund nefarious activities. North Korea has been a prominent player in the cryptocurrency space for some time, and this report highlights the scale of their efforts. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of strong cybersecurity measures for individuals and businesses alike.
Summary
- A Lockbit ransomware hacker has been arrested and charged with extortion that cost victims millions of dollars.
- A recent report sheds light on the troubling behavior of an FBI informant who ended up financially exploiting members of a group she was meant to be gathering information on.
- North Korean hackers stole approximately $1.75 billion worth of cryptocurrency between January 2017 and September 2021 to fund their government initiatives and evade international sanctions.
From cybercrime to the consequences of unchecked informant behavior, these stories emphasize the need for strong cybersecurity measures and ethical conduct in law enforcement.
Original Article: https://www.wired.com/story/russia-gru-cadet-blizzard-ukraine-security-roundup/
