Security News > 2024 > May > Cops finally unmask 'LockBit kingpin' after two-month tease
Updated Police have finally named who they firmly believe is the kingpin of the LockBit ransomware ring: Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev.
"These sanctions are an important moment in our fight against cyber criminals behind the LockBit ransomware group, which is now on its knees following our disruption earlier this year," said Graeme Biggar, director general at the UK National Crime Agency, which led Operation Cronos.
"Dmitry Khoroshev thought he was beyond reproach, even offering $10 million to anyone who could reveal his identity, but these actions dispel that myth. Our investigation into LockBit and its affiliates continues and, working with our international partners, we'll do everything we can to undermine their operations and protect the public."
"At times, LockBit was the most prolific ransomware group in the world," the US Dept of Justice noted.
Despite Khoroshev's attempts to rebuild the operation, LockBit remains significantly upended.
The NCA said: "Data shows that the average number of monthly LockBit attacks has reduced by 73 percent in the UK since February's action, with other countries also reporting reductions. Attacks appear to have been carried out by less sophisticated affiliates with lower levels of impact."