Argentine authorities recently dismantled a cryptocurrency operation in Buenos Aires allegedly connected to North Korean hackers. The operation, led by a 29-year-old Russian citizen identified as VB, involved illegal currency exchanges and laundering funds tied to a $100 million cyber heist. The bust took place in the Palermo neighborhood and was carried out by the Argentine Federal Police’s Technical Department of Cybercrime, seizing $121,327 in cryptocurrencies and $15 million from a financial institution.
The investigation revealed that VB’s activities were linked to a broader cyber scam executed by North Korean hackers involved in the Harmony Bridge hacking case. Local authorities traced the stolen funds to a cryptocurrency wallet in Argentina, leading to the raid and arrest. VB’s operations included suspicious transfers connected to child abuse material and terrorist financing, raising the alarm about potential links to international criminal networks operating in Russia and Argentina.
During the raid, authorities seized electronic devices from VB’s apartment, which are expected to uncover more information about the scope of the operation. The financial institution involved, located in San Nicolás, allegedly used a Telegram bot to facilitate illegal exchanges of various currencies. Investigators, with the help of TRM Labs, a cryptocurrency mapping firm, discovered transactions between VB’s accounts and other Binance users both locally and abroad.
Judge Pablo Yadarola, overseeing the case, has charged VB with money laundering and gang involvement. This operation underscores the growing challenge law enforcement faces in combatting cybercrime, particularly with the use of decentralized platforms. The case highlights the critical role of international cooperation and advanced technology in tracking down cybercriminals, and authorities are hopeful that further arrests will follow as the investigation continues.
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