UPDATE: In a significant development, Ukrainian national Artem Stryzhak has pleaded guilty to his role in a widespread global ransomware conspiracy. This urgent announcement came during his court appearance in Brooklyn federal court, where he admitted to conspiracy charges related to fraud and computer extortion.
Stryzhak, who was arrested in Spain in June 2024 and extradited to the United States on April 30, now faces a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years. His co-conspirator, Volodymyr Tymoshchuk, remains at large, with the U.S. Department of State offering a staggering $11 million reward for information leading to his arrest or conviction.
According to court records, Stryzhak and his associates utilized the notorious Nefilim ransomware to infiltrate and encrypt the digital systems of major corporations primarily in the United States, Canada, and Australia. The attackers demanded ransom payments, threatening to release the stolen data on “Corporate Leaks” websites if their demands were not met.
After breaching corporate networks, Stryzhak and his team reportedly conducted extensive research on their targets, gathering critical financial and contact information through online databases, as revealed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
United States Attorney Joseph Nocella praised the collaborative efforts of international and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s New York Field Office and Spanish authorities, in bringing Stryzhak to justice. “This conviction underscores our commitment to holding individuals accountable for cybercrimes,” Nocella stated.
The search for Tymoshchuk remains active, as he is identified as a key administrator of the Nefilim ransomware operation. His whereabouts are still unknown, prompting the FBI to emphasize its ongoing efforts in investigating cybercrime. Christopher J.S. Johnson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Springfield, mentioned that the agency is dedicated to tracing digital activity across networks and international borders to identify those responsible.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section, with Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander F. Mindlin and Ellen H. Sise, along with Trial Attorney Brian Mund from the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section.
The public is encouraged to report any information regarding Tymoshchuk or related individuals to the FBI at +1-917-242-1407 or via email at [email protected] Details about the State Department’s reward offer can be found on its website, and tips can also be submitted to local FBI offices or any U.S. embassy abroad.
This case highlights the urgent need for vigilance against cyber threats, as authorities continue to pursue justice for the victims of these high-stakes ransomware attacks. Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
