Europol today announced the arrest of a Russian national linked to the LockBit ransomware attacks. These attacks target critical infrastructure organisations and high-profile companies worldwide.
See also: StrelaStealer malware: steals Outlook and Thunderbird credentials
Last month, the suspect was arrested in Ontario, Canada as a result of an investigation led by the French National Gendarmerie with additional support from Europol's European Cybercrime Centre (EC3), the FBI and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
See also: Who is the hacking group Earth Longzhi and what are their tactics
"The world's most prolific ransomware operator has been arrested in Ontario, Canada," the Europol.
The suspect, a 33-year-old Russian national, is believed to have deployed the LockBit ransomware in attacks against critical infrastructure and large industrial groups around the world.
The agents of law enforcement authorities Law seized from the suspect's house eight computers, 32 external hard disks, two firearms and cryptocurrency worth 400.000 euros.
LockBit ransomware operator and one of Europol's high-value targets due to his involvement in several other Affairs, is known for the effort extorting victims with ransom demands of between €5 and €70 million.
See also: Couple tried to sell US nuclear warship secrets
Later today, the Ministry of Justice of United States plans to issue a statement on the charges the suspect will face in America.
Europol describes the suspect in the ransomware as an "operator". It is most likely that it is simply a partner and not for someone who managed by the cybercrime operation.
In addition, the person representing LockBit to the public, "LockBitSupp", posted on a hacker forum just yesterday.
Lockbit ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and requires a ransom to be paid to decrypt them. This ransomware is relatively new, as it first appeared in May 2020. It is believed to be a variant of the Sodinokibi ransomware (REvil) that had already appeared. Lockbit has been used in targeted attacks against businesses in various industries.
Source of information: bleepingcomputer.com
