February 16, 2024 at 05:33AM
Ukrainian national Vyacheslav Igorevich Penchukov, also known as ‘Tank’, pleaded guilty to RICO and wire fraud charges related to cybercrime operations involving Zeus and IcedID malware. The operations caused substantial financial losses. Penchukov, arrested in Switzerland and extradited to the US, awaits sentencing on May 9 and could face up to 20 years in prison per count.
From the meeting notes, it is clear that Vyacheslav Igorevich Penchukov, also known as ‘Tank’, has pleaded guilty to RICO and wire fraud charges related to his involvement in cybercrime operations linked to the Zeus and IcedID malware. The Zeus operation, which began in May 2009, infected millions of devices and led to unauthorized transfers from victims’ bank accounts. Penchukov is also believed to have had a leadership position in the IcedID malware operation between November 2018 and February 2021. Both operations caused significant financial losses. Penchukov’s sentencing is scheduled for May 9, and he could face up to 20 years in prison for each count. This highlights the ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and enforce consequences for those involved.