LockBit Ransomware Gang Member Arrested - Third Suspect Apprehended

LockBit Ransomware Gang Member Charged in New Jersey

Federal prosecutors in New Jersey have revealed charges against Rostislav Panev, a 51-year-old holding both Russian and Israeli citizenship. He is alleged to be a significant developer within the notorious LockBit ransomware operation.

Currently detained by Israeli authorities, Panev is facing potential extradition to the United States to answer for the accusations leveled against him.

LockBit's Global Impact

LockBit has established itself as one of the most active and damaging ransomware groups globally. The gang is implicated in numerous large-scale cyberattacks targeting organizations worldwide, including those within the U.S.

It is estimated that LockBit is responsible for at least $500 million in ransom payments received from its victims.

Despite a February operation where law enforcement seized the group’s infrastructure, LockBit demonstrated resilience by quickly restoring its operations. This was facilitated by the continued freedom of its leader, identified as Dmitry Khoroshev by both U.K. and U.S. officials.

Continued Crackdown on LockBit Affiliates

This latest development represents the third successful apprehension of a LockBit affiliate by law enforcement.

Previously, Mikhail Vasiliev was arrested in Canada in 2022, followed by Ruslan Astamirov’s capture in the U.S. in 2023.

To date, a total of seven individuals associated with the LockBit ransomware gang have been indicted.

Prosecutors highlight this as a three-for-three success rate in apprehending identified affiliates.