‘Phobos’ Ransomware Cybercriminal Extradited From South Korea

November 19, 2024 at 01:21PM

Russian cybercriminal Evgenii Ptitsyn, 42, appeared in a Maryland court after extradition from South Korea. He faces charges for operating the Phobos ransomware, allegedly extorting over $16 million from more than 1,000 victims globally. He could face significant prison time if convicted on multiple counts, including wire fraud and extortion.

### Meeting Takeaways:

1. **Subject of the Meeting**: Evgenii Ptitsyn, a Russian cybercriminal leader, has appeared in a US District Court following his extradition from South Korea.

2. **Charges**: Ptitsyn faces multiple charges, including:
– Wire fraud conspiracy
– Wire fraud
– Conspiracy to commit computer fraud and abuse
– Four counts of intentionally damaging protected computers
– Four counts of extortion related to hacking

3. **Impact of Crimes**:
– Allegedly administered the Phobos ransomware, affecting over 1,000 victims, including various public and private entities across the globe.
– Extorted more than $16 million in ransom payments through the ransomware operation.

4. **Modus Operandi**:
– Collaborated with affiliates to provide access to ransomware.
– Engaged in unauthorized access to victims’ computer networks to steal and encrypt data.
– Threatened to publicize stolen files if ransom demands were not met.

5. **Statement from Authorities**: Nicole M. Argentieri, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, emphasized the significant impact of Ptitsyn’s actions on various sectors, including corporations, schools, hospitals, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes.

6. **Potential Penalties**: If convicted, Ptitsyn faces severe sentencing:
– Up to 20 years for each wire fraud count
– Up to 10 years for each computer hacking count
– Up to 5 years for conspiracy to commit computer fraud and abuse

7. **Date of Initial Charges**: Activities reportedly began in November 2020.

These points encapsulate the key information and implications surrounding Evgenii Ptitsyn’s court appearance and the associated legal actions.

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