UPDATE: In a significant development, Artem Stryzhak, a Ukrainian national, has just pleaded guilty in a Brooklyn Federal Court to his role in a global ransomware conspiracy. This plea marks a critical moment in ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime, as Stryzhak admitted to conspiracy to commit fraud and related computer extortion offenses.
Stryzhak was arrested in Spain in June 2024 and extradited to the United States on April 30. He 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 capture.
The duo allegedly utilized the Nefilim ransomware to infiltrate and encrypt the systems of large corporations, primarily targeting businesses in the United States, Canada, and Australia. These attackers demanded ransom payments, threatening to expose stolen data on notorious “Corporate Leaks” websites if their demands were not met.
Court documents reveal that Stryzhak and his associates meticulously researched their targets by accessing online databases to gather sensitive financial and contact information. Joseph Nocella, the United States Attorney, emphasized the collaborative efforts of international and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s New York Field Office and Spanish authorities, in securing Stryzhak’s arrest.
“This conviction underscores our commitment to holding cybercriminals accountable,” Nocella stated. The urgency of this case is amplified by the fact that Tymoshchuk is identified as a key administrator of the Nefilim ransomware, with his whereabouts currently unknown.
The FBI is actively pursuing leads, with Special Agent in Charge Christopher J.S. Johnson affirming the agency’s dedication to tracing digital activity across borders to identify and prosecute those responsible for cybercrimes. The analysis of digital evidence played a crucial role in Stryzhak’s prosecution.
This high-profile case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section, led by Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander F. Mindlin and Ellen H. Sise, alongside Trial Attorney Brian Mund.
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]. More details about the State Department’s reward offer can be found on its official website; tips can also be submitted to a local FBI office or any U.S. embassy abroad.
As this case unfolds, the implications for cybersecurity and international law enforcement efforts are profound. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities intensify their search for one of the key figures behind the Nefilim ransomware attacks.
