October 1, 2024 at 10:12AM
The National Crime Agency (NCA) revealed the identification of Aleksandr Ryzhenkov, a high-ranking member of Evil Corp believed to be a LockBit affiliate known as “Beverley.” The unmasking follows the disruption of 194 LockBit affiliates, with Ryzhenkov allegedly responsible for 60 attacks totaling $100 million in Bitcoin. NCA continues its pursuit of key members.
From the meeting notes, I have gathered the following key takeaways:
– The National Crime Agency (NCA) has identified Aleksandr Ryzhenkov as a high-ranking member of the long-running Evil Corp crime group, and also as the LockBit affiliate known as “Beverley” since at least 2022. This marks the first known crossover between the two Russian gangs.
– Ryzhenkov is believed to be one of Evil Corp leader Maksim Yakubets’ closest professional allies and personal friends. The NCA alleges that they have worked together as leading organized cybercriminals since at least 2011.
– It is reported that Ryzhenkov has been active as a LockBit affiliate for around two years, conducting 60 attacks using LockBit’s tools, leading to attempted extortion demands totaling $100 million in Bitcoin.
– The relationship between Evil Corp and the Russian security services is thought to be extraordinarily close, with Evil Corp having worked its way up into a highly privileged position in the Russian government.
Overall, the meeting notes shed light on the connections and activities of key individuals within the criminal groups, as well as the ongoing efforts by law enforcement, particularly the NCA, to disrupt and bring the key members to justice.