The U.S., the UK and Australia have imposed sanctions on Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev (D.O.B: 17/04/1993), a Russian citizen and leader of the LockBit group based in Russia, for his role in developing and distributing ransomware software.
LockBit is a prominent criminal ransomware gang that aims to destabilize and disrupt key sectors for financial gain. The group has conducted numerous malicious campaigns using ransomware against various targets, including unauthorized access to information systems and interference with data in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
According to the United States Department of Justice, LockBit has targeted over 2,500 victims worldwide, with only 119 reported victims in Australia and received more than $500 million.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of State has announced a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Dmitry Khoroshev for participating in transnational organized crime.
“Sanctions impose costs and consequences on individuals for their actions – we will continue to use them where and when appropriate,” said Penny Wong, the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs.
