#604: How He Infiltrated LockBit and Helped Get Them Indicted

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John DiMaggio created fake identities, profiled ransomware operators and spent approximately 18 months earning the trust of LockBit.

In this interview, John explains how his investigation led to work with the FBI and the UK’s National Crime Agency, contributed to indictments and resulted in death threats against him. He also reveals how the work affected his mental health, relationships and everyday life.

John shares the remarkable story of a young REvil hacker connected to the Kaseya ransomware attack and its $70 million ransom demand. He explains how ransomware operators are recruited, manipulated and sometimes controlled by intelligence agencies.

You will also learn why stolen cryptocurrency is difficult to spend, how Bitcoin tracing and money-laundering mistakes expose cybercriminals and why technical hacking skills do not make someone good at hiding money. Finally, John warns aspiring researchers not to approach ransomware gangs without professional training and support. He discusses his new book, Owned, and how he plans to use his experience to help cybersecurity teams and business leaders prepare for ransomware attacks.

// Link to No Starch Website for Jon DiMaggio’s Book //

Order Owned on No Starch: https://nostarch.com/owned

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// Jon DiMaggio’s SOCIALS //

Website: https://arkemcyber.com/

X: https://x.com/Jon__DiMaggio

LinkedIn: / jondimaggio