Russian Police Seize Over $10 Million from REvil Hacker Group Members
According to reports, Russian law enforcement has confiscated more than 1 million euros, $950,000, 20 bitcoins, and over 300 million rubles from members of the REvil hacker group. This information was shared by Sergey Lebedev, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Russia and head of the Investigative Department, in an interview with Interfax.
Background on the REvil Arrests
In mid-January 2022, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the arrest of 14 individuals connected to REvil. Searches were conducted at 25 locations in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Leningrad and Lipetsk regions. The operation was reportedly initiated following a request from U.S. authorities.
The Tverskoy District Court in Moscow subsequently ordered eight suspected members of the hacker group to be held in custody. All suspects were charged with acquiring and storing electronic means intended for the illegal transfer of funds as part of an organized group (Part 2, Article 187 of the Russian Criminal Code). The maximum penalty under this article is up to seven years in prison.
Details of the Investigation
Sergey Lebedev stated that investigators have already conducted more than 50 interrogations and 26 searches, and are currently carrying out 16 technical, forensic, and computer examinations related to the REvil case.
“During the investigation, more than 300,000,000 rubles, $950,000, over 1,000,000 euros, and a flash drive containing 19.9 bitcoins were seized,” Lebedev said.
Possible Links to U.S. Crimes
It is noted that the arrested members of the hacker group may also be involved in thefts from both U.S. citizens and organizations. However, Lebedev mentioned that foreign partners have been slow to provide the necessary information that would allow Russian authorities to hold those responsible for other crimes accountable and restore the rights of affected citizens.