Russia Arrests Hacker Wanted by U.S. for Major Ransomware Attacks

Mikhail Matveev, tied to cyberattacks on U.S. law enforcement and healthcare, faces charges in Russia, limiting U.S. prosecution efforts.

Mikhail Matveev, a Russian hacker linked to Hive, LockBit, and Babuk ransomware groups, has been arrested and charged in Russia under its criminal code for developing malicious software.
The U.S. Justice Department had previously charged Matveev for ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure, including law enforcement and healthcare organizations, between 2020 and 2022.
Matveev's ransomware operations reportedly demanded $400 million in ransoms, with victims paying an estimated $200 million, according to U.S. authorities.
The U.S. State Department offered a $10 million reward for information leading to Matveev's arrest, but his custody in Russia may prevent extradition or prosecution in the U.S.
Known for his vocal online presence, Matveev openly discussed his cyber activities and taunted U.S. law enforcement, even after being sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department.