The cryptocurrency seizure and sanctions targeting the Prince Group, associates and affiliated businesses mark the most extensive action taken against cybercrime operations in the region to date.

Okta Threat Intelligence uncovered a large-scale and sustained operation, reflecting the North Korean regime’s pursuit of any opportunity that allows for remote employment.

Cybercrime hubs in Southeast Asia scammed Americans out of at least $10 billion last year, a 66% increase from 2023, officials said.

As the sanctions-evading scheme has grown, so too has the U.S. government’s response.

The State Department also announced financial rewards totaling up to $6 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Garantex’s leaders.

The Russian cybercrime group attacked more than 180 organizations before members abandoned the brand and dispersed to new ransomware groups earlier this year.

The announcement comes as an Arizona woman was sentenced to more than eight years in jail for her role in running a laptop farm.

A North Korean man was the focus of Tuesday’s announcement, which also included a Russian man, his companies and North Korean firms.

Russia-based Aeza Group allegedly provided infrastructure to BianLian ransomware and the Meduza, RedLine and Lumma infostealer operators.

New legislation seeks the creation of a Treasury-led task force to examine and combat AI-fueled scams that trick Americans out of their money.