Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev

Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev, a Russian national from Voronezh, Russia, is identified as a significant threat actor in the cybersecurity landscape. Known by the alias "LockBitSupp," Khoroshev has been revealed as the creator, developer, and administrator of LockBit, a notorious ransomware group. His identity, which was once closely guarded, was unveiled by authorities in May 2024. The identification of Khoroshev marked a crucial turning point in the ongoing battle against cybercrime. In the aftermath of the revelation, charges were brought against Khoroshev and other members of LockBit in the District of New Jersey. This legal action followed previous indictments unsealed by the US, UK, and Australian governments in an international law enforcement operation known as Operation Cronos. The focus on LockBit and its leadership demonstrates a concerted effort by global authorities to dismantle major ransomware groups that pose significant threats to cybersecurity. In addition to these legal measures, authorities have also employed tactics such as public shaming and belittlement of LockBit affiliates to destabilize the group further. A fact sheet released by the Justice Department detailed key actions taken against major ransomware groups, including the seizure of LockBit's infrastructure and the successful disruption campaign against another prominent group, REvil. These actions underscore the commitment of authorities to combat cybercrime and bring individuals like Khoroshev to justice.