Ransomware Kingpin: $11 Million Bounty on Ukraine’s Most Wanted Hacker
Volodymyr Tymoshchuk, a Ukrainian national, is facing federal charges for orchestrating ransomware attacks, including LockerGoga, MegaCortex, and Nefilim. These attacks allegedly caused $18 billion in damages worldwide, with a staggering $11 million bounty now on Tymoshchuk’s head. He’s currently on Europe’s Most Wanted Fugitives list, evading arrest.
Hot Take:
It’s not every day you find a job with an $11 million signing bonus — but for Volodymyr Tymoshchuk, it’s more of a ‘please sign this confession’ bonus. This alleged ransomware ringleader is making headlines, not for his LinkedIn profile updates, but for turning digital extortion into a globe-trotting criminal enterprise. From the comfort of Kyiv to the FBI’s Most Wanted list, Tymoshchuk is the cybersecurity equivalent of a Bond villain, minus the charisma and plus a whole lot of legal trouble.
Key Points:
- Volodymyr Tymoshchuk is accused of leading ransomware attacks causing $18 billion in damages.
- The US has placed an $11 million bounty on Tymoshchuk, who remains at large.
- He allegedly orchestrated three major ransomware operations: LockerGoga, MegaCortex, and Nefilim.
- Charges include computer intrusion offenses, with potential life imprisonment if convicted.
- Norsk Hydro was notably impacted, suffering $81 million in damages from one attack.