DOJ says ransomware gang tapped into Russian government databases
Source: TechCrunch
Sentencing of Deniss Zolotarjovs
A U.S. court sentenced Latvian hacker Deniss Zolotarjovs to more than eight years in prison after convicting him of conducting ransomware attacks. Zolotarjovs was arrested in the country of Georgia in 2023, extradited to the United States in August 2024, and later pleaded guilty.
Karakurt ransomware gang
The Justice Department said Zolotarjovs worked for the Russian ransomware gang Karakurt, which was led by former leaders of the Akira and Conti ransomware groups—individuals who were sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury for alleged links to Russian intelligence.
DOJ findings on Russian government ties
According to the DOJ, Karakurt relied on access to Russian government databases and law‑enforcement connections to intimidate victims. Prosecutors noted that the gang’s ties to officials allowed its leaders to avoid paying taxes and to pay bribes that exempted members from compulsory Russian military service. The DOJ described the gang as having “fueled corruption” within the Russian government.
Impact and scope of attacks
- Members of Karakurt targeted U.S. government entities, disrupting 911 emergency dispatch systems and stealing children’s health information.
- Zolotarjovs was responsible for “escalating pressure” on victims who resisted ransom demands.
- The gang is reported to have targeted more than 54 companies, extracting at least $15 million in ransom payments.
- Karakurt does not appear to be an active ransomware gang; some operations change owners and names, sometimes to evade sanctions.
Broader context
Security researchers have long accused the Russian government of shielding ransomware gangs and refusing to extradite citizens accused of damaging hacks. U.S. officials have warned that Russia has become a “safe haven” for cybercriminals, citing ransomware as a top national security challenge for the United States.
The Russian Foreign Ministry did not respond to TechCrunch’s request for comment.