Ransomware Ringleader: US Indicts “Black Kingdom” Mastermind for Epic Microsoft Hack-a-thon
US authorities have indicted Rami Khaled Ahmed, a 36-year-old Yemeni, for orchestrating 1,500 attacks on Microsoft Exchange servers. The Black Kingdom ransomware administrator demanded $10,000 in Bitcoin per attack. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison for each charge.
Hot Take:
Looks like ransomware creators are branching out from their usual cryptic hideouts to the courtrooms now. Rami Khaled Ahmed, the supposed mastermind behind the Black Kingdom ransomware, might have to exchange his cyber throne for a not-so-comfy prison cot if the U.S. has anything to say about it. With 1,500 attacks under his digital belt, it seems like his keyboard fury might finally meet its match! Who knew cybercriminals could be as predictable as the latest iPhone release?
Key Points:
- Rami Khaled Ahmed, a Yemeni national, is indicted for 1,500 ransomware attacks on Microsoft Exchange servers.
- Black Kingdom ransomware demanded $10,000 in Bitcoin from victims, targeting sectors like healthcare and education.
- The FBI and New Zealand Police are collaborating on the investigation.
- The ransomware exploits vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange and previously targeted Pulse Secure VPN software.
- If convicted, Ahmed could face up to five years in federal prison for each charge.