In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. government has placed a hefty $10 million price tag on information regarding three Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) officers. These individuals are accused of orchestrating a series of cyberattacks that targeted vital U.S. infrastructure, marking one of the most extensive cybercrime investigations to date.
The suspects—Marat Valeryevich Tyukov, Mikhail Mikhailovich Gavrilov, and Pavel Aleksandrovich Akulov—are known for their affiliation with the FSB’s cyber unit, often referred to by intriguing names such as Berserk Bear, Dragonfly, Blue Kraken, Koala Team, and Crouching Yeti. Their alleged activities span over a decade, making waves across the globe.
A Long History of Intrusions
According to prosecutors, these three individuals were indicted in 2021 for a hacking spree that stretches back to 2012. They reportedly infiltrated key U.S. government agencies, including the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and even targeted the Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation in Burlington, Kansas.
On an international scale, they are believed to have attacked over 500 energy companies in 135 countries, embedding malware, stealing credentials, and mapping out networks for potential future sabotage.
The State Department recently put out a call for help, stating, “For information on three Russian FSB officers who conducted malicious cyber activities against U.S. critical infrastructure on behalf of the Russian government.” This tweet highlighted the magnitude of their actions, not only against the U.S. but also against foreign energy firms.
According to the FBI, these suspects have not slowed down; just last year, they exploited an old but critical vulnerability (CVE-2018-0171) in Cisco’s Smart Install feature to infiltrate U.S. critical infrastructure. Even though this flaw was patched back in 2018, many organizations continue to run outdated hardware, leaving them vulnerable to attacks.
What’s Next?
Officials are urging anyone with relevant information to reach out to the State Department’s Rewards for Justice program. They assure confidentiality, potential relocation, and, of course, the chance at a life-changing payout.
The Politics Behind The Bounty
While this bounty sends a clear message, critics are questioning its timing. These suspects have been on the U.S. radar for years and are unlikely to be extradited from Russia. Many analysts view the $10 million as more of a symbolic gesture than a practical measure—an indication that Washington is keeping tabs on cyber threats from Moscow.
The underlying message is clear: if you dare to target America’s critical systems, expect consequences. The U.S. is prepared to take action, even if it involves putting a bounty on the heads of those involved.
