LockBit Ransomware Developer Rostislav Panev Extradited to U.S.

Rostislav Panev, a 51-year-old dual Russian-Israeli national, has been extradited from Israel to the United States to face charges related to his role as a developer for the LockBit ransomware group, which has been responsible for attacks on over 2,500 victims globally. Panev was arrested in August 2024, where authorities discovered incriminating evidence on his computer, including credentials for LockBit's internal control panel and source code for its ransomware and data theft tools. He allegedly earned approximately $230,000 in cryptocurrency for his work with the group since its inception in 2019, contributing to the gang's extraction of over $500 million in ransom payments. The indictment against him includes 41 counts of conspiracy and fraud, with U.S. prosecutors emphasizing a commitment to bringing members of the LockBit conspiracy to justice. Panev's extradition follows a broader international crackdown on LockBit, with several other members also facing charges. The group's operations have targeted various sectors, including healthcare and government agencies, causing significant financial damage worldwide.