Russian-Israeli National Extradited to US Over LockBit Ransomware
Russian-Israeli national Rostislav Panev has been extradited to the USA, accused of developing and maintaining the notorious LockBit ransomware. Since its inception in 2019, LockBit has wreaked havoc worldwide, with over 2500 victims and losses exceeding billions of dollars.
Panev's role in LockBit's development spanned from 2019 until at least February 2024. He exchanged direct messages with Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev, LockBit's alleged primary creator, and received over $230,000 in cryptocurrency payments. Panev's computer held administrator credentials for an online repository storing LockBit's source code and the StealBit tool.
LockBit's operators and affiliates have targeted critical services like hospitals and government agencies across 120 countries. Victims have paid at least $500 million in ransom, with total losses soaring. Despite Operation Cronos in February 2024, which significantly diminished LockBit's capabilities, the group has released new versions of the ransomware to continue attacks.
Panev's extradition to the USA marks a significant blow to LockBit's operations. US authorities are also seeking Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev, offering a $10 million reward for his arrest and/or conviction. As LockBit continues to evolve, international cooperation remains crucial in combating this global cyber threat.
