The U.S. Department of Justice has taken a significant step in the fight against cybercrime by offering a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Amin Timovich Stigal, a Russian citizen charged with conspiracy to hack into and destroy computer systems and data. The announcement comes after a federal grand jury in Maryland returned an indictment highlighting Stigal’s alleged involvement in cyberattacks targeting Ukrainian government systems and countries supporting Ukraine, including the United States.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Stigal and members of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff (GRU) of the Russian Federation conspired to use a U.S.-based company’s services to distribute malware known as “WhisperGate” to numerous Ukrainian government entities’ computer systems. These attacks, which began in January 2022, were aimed at destroying systems and related data ahead of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

On January 13, 2022, the Conspirators launched multiple attacks on Ukrainian government networks, including the Ministry of International Affairs, the State Treasury, and the Ministry of Education and Science. The malware, designed to mimic ransomware, was a cyberweapon intended to cripple the target computer and its data. Additionally, the Conspirators exfiltrated sensitive data and defaced websites to spread fear among the Ukrainian population.

The indictment also alleges that in August 2022, the Conspirators targeted the transportation infrastructure of a Central European country supporting Ukraine. Between August 2021 and February 2022, they probed computers belonging to a federal government agency in Maryland using the same infrastructure as in the Ukraine-related attacks. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the Department of Justice’s commitment to standing with Ukraine against Russia’s malicious cyber activities.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen echoed this sentiment, stating that the Department will continue to prevent and disrupt such malicious behavior that targets U.S. victims or relies on online services or infrastructure in the U.S. FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate highlighted the agency’s dedication to combating cyber threats posed by adversaries and reiterated the FBI’s commitment to working with international partners to thwart such activities.

Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office reiterated the FBI’s determination to pursue justice and disrupt malicious cyber actors. He warned adversaries that they will be identified and face consequences for their actions. If convicted, Stigal could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

The FBI Baltimore Field Office is leading the investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron S.J. Zelinsky and Robert I. Goldaris prosecuting the case for the District of Maryland. The National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section is supporting the investigation. The Department of Justice’s announcement highlights the ongoing international efforts to combat cyber threats and hold cybercriminals accountable for their actions.

Overall, the U.S. Department of Justice’s initiative underscores the importance of collaboration and vigilance in the ongoing fight against cybercrime. It sends a clear message that malicious cyber activities will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be pursued and brought to justice.

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