TechFlow reported on July 25 that according to CoinDesk, the latest report from encryption compliance and risk management company TRM Labs showed that Russian ransomware groups were responsible for at least 69% of encryption ransomware revenue in 2023, exceeding $500 million. The report pointed out that Russian dark web markets accounted for 95% of all illegal drug sales denominated in cryptocurrency on the dark web.

Additionally, funds flowing into the Russian exchange Garantex accounted for 82% of crypto trading volume by international sanctioned entities. The report mentioned that many users turned to cryptocurrencies to circumvent these restrictions. The two largest ransomware operators, Lockbit and ALPHV/Black Cat, are both Russian-speaking groups. Although the UK National Crime Agency has successfully taken control of Lockbit's services, compromising its criminal activities, the malicious activities of Russian-speaking threat actors remain extensive.

At the same time, the report also pointed out that North Korea remains the world's hacking superpower, stealing nearly $1 billion in cryptocurrency in 2023.