Ransomware Rockstar Busted: Mikhail Matveev’s Malware Meltdown in Russia

Ransomware ‘celebrity’ Mikhail Matveev, aka Wazawaka, was arrested in Kaliningrad, Russia. Known for his involvement with ransomware groups like Lockbit, Conti, and BABUK, his arrest could be a plot twist in a hacker’s own movie. Now, will Russia’s cybercrime drama be renewed for another season? Stay tuned!

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Hot Take:

Looks like Russia decided to lock up one of its own digital Picasso’s, Mikhail Matveev, who painted masterpieces of malware while casually flaunting his work like a kid showing off their latest Lego creation. Although, I suppose when you’re tied to hacking groups like Lockbit and Conti, it’s less about play and more about pay… just not the kind that keeps you out of prison!

Key Points:

  • Mikhail Pavlovich Matveev, also known as Wazawaka, was arrested in Kaliningrad, Russia.
  • He is linked to several notorious ransomware groups: Lockbit, Conti, and BABUK.
  • The U.S. Justice Department charged him with multiple ransomware attacks on American soil.
  • Matveev could face over 20 years in prison if convicted.
  • The FBI listed him on their Most Wanted list, offering a $10 million reward for his capture.

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