Security News > 2022 > November > Russian LockBit ransomware operator arrested in Canada
Europol has announced today the arrest of a Russian national linked to LockBit ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure organizations and high-profile companies worldwide.
"One of the world's most prolific ransomware operators has been arrested on 26 October in Ontario, Canada," Europol said today.
"A 33-year old Russian national, the suspect is believed to have deployed the LockBit ransomware to carry out attacks against critical infrastructure and large industrial groups across the world."
Europol added that this LockBit operator "Was one of Europol's high-value targets due to his involvement in numerous high-profile ransomware cases," and he is known for trying to extort victims with ransom demands between €5 to €70 million.
While announcements from Europol and the Ukrainian police described the suspects as members of a top-tier ransomware gang, Europol told BleepingComputer at the time that they could not name the group for operational reasons.
Last year, the Ukrainian police also arrested other suspects believed to be members of the Clop and Egregor ransomware operations.
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