Thai Police Arrest Russian Hackers Behind Swiss Ransomware Attacks

Four Russian citizens have been arrested by Phuket authorities on suspicion of stealing millions of cryptocurrency through ransomware assaults on many Swiss businesses. The arrests come after a thorough investigation into cybercrimes that impact large companies.

The Nation Thailand claims that between April 2023 and October 2024, the defendants infected 17 Swiss businesses with ransomware. They allegedly encrypted company data using the Phobos virus and demanded cryptocurrency payments to unlock it.

The individuals are thought to be affiliated with the Russian ransomware gang 8Base, which has attacked businesses all over the world. They reportedly took Bitcoin valued at about $16 million from about 1,000 victims.

Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiewphan, commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, confirmed that both U.S. and Swiss authorities had issued warrants for their arrest. Working alongside immigration officials, Thai police tracked them to Phuket, where they seized over 40 pieces of evidence, including laptops, smartphones, and digital wallets. Switzerland has formally requested their extradition.

Growing Crypto-Related Crimes in Phuket

In recent months, crimes using cryptocurrencies have increased in Phuket. A Russian guy was attacked and robbed of $20,000 in a Karon hotel in January. According to reports, he and two Russian acquaintances got into a quarrel about cryptocurrencies, which led to the attack.

Another instance in November 2024 involved the kidnapping of a Ukrainian guy and his forced transfer of $250,000 worth of Tether. He was restrained and forced to complete the transaction before his assailants ran away, according to local media.

Law enforcement is stepping up their efforts to combat cybercrime as a result of the recent arrests, which demonstrate the growing usage of cryptocurrencies in illegal activity. Thai officials are still collaborating with foreign organizations to combat crimes involving digital assets.