The U.S. government has unveiled a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of three Russian FSB officers.
The officers are accused of carrying out cyberattacks on U.S. critical infrastructure and exploiting Cisco network equipment.
This public notice aims to raise awareness and encourage anyone with useful information to come forward.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the three officers worked under the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB).
They allegedly hacked into Cisco devices used by energy companies and other essential services.
The attacks targeted more than 500 foreign energy firms in at least 135 countries. In the United States, critical infrastructure sectors such as power grids, pipelines, and utility networks were at risk.
The three officers named in the announcement are Marat Valeryevich Tyukov, Mikhail Mikhailovich Gavrilov, and Pavel Aleksandrovich Akulov.
The FBI released photos of the men and set up a Rewards for Justice program to encourage witnesses to share information. Tips can be sent anonymously through a Tor-based link. Individuals who help may qualify for relocation and protection under U.S. law.
This bounty follows reports that the FSB hackers exploited vulnerabilities in Cisco routers and switches. Cisco devices are widely used by businesses, governments, and service providers to manage network traffic.
By planting custom malware and backdoors, the hackers could monitor and control data flows. Experts warn such attacks can cause massive disruptions if left unchecked.
Cybersecurity experts praised the U.S. move, saying it sends a strong message. “Offering a $10 million reward shows how serious the U.S. is about defending critical infrastructure,” said one security analyst. “It also highlights the growing risk from state-sponsored cyber operations.”
Several leading tech companies have also stepped up efforts to patch vulnerabilities and harden their systems against similar attacks.
Russia has not publicly responded to the U.S. announcement. Relations between the two countries remain tense, especially over allegations of state-sponsored hacking.
In recent years, the U.S. and its allies have blamed Russia for a series of cyberattacks on government agencies, energy firms, and election systems.
The Rewards for Justice website provides instructions for submitting tips. The Tor link is he5dybnt7sr6cm32xt77pazmtm65flqy6irivtflruqfc5ep7eioidad.onion. Anyone with images, documents, or digital evidence can upload files securely.
Sources are strongly encouraged to provide any details that could help identify or locate these FSB officers.
This bold step by the U.S. government underscores the ongoing battle in cyberspace. As networks become more vital to daily life, protecting them from hostile actors is a top priority.
With a $10 million bounty on the table, authorities hope the public will help bring these alleged hackers to justice.
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