Conti, Akira ransomware affiliate given 8-year sentence

A Latvian ransomware affiliate, Deniss Zolotarjovs, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 102 months for his role as a negotiator and extortion specialist for a criminal organization tied to Conti/Karakurt/Akira. Prosecutors say he helped extort and steal from over 53 companies, contributed to approximately $56 million in losses, and used threats and leaks of sensitive data (including pediatric health records) to force payments; the group remains active and prolific.