DOJ says ransomware gang tapped into Russian government databases

A U.S. court sentenced Latvian hacker Deniss Zolotarjovs to over eight years for his role in Karakurt ransomware operations that targeted more than 54 companies and U.S. government entities, disrupted 911 emergency dispatch systems, and exfiltrated sensitive data (including children’s health information). The DOJ linked Karakurt to former Conti/Akira leaders and alleged ties to Russian government databases and corrupt officials; victims paid at least $15 million in ransoms. Zolotarjovs was arrested in Georgia, extradited to the U.S. in 2024, and pleaded guilty.