According to Foresight News, the U.S. Department of Justice has announced the seizure of the cybercrime marketplace Popeyetools and the indictment of its administrators, Abdul Ghaffar, Abdul Sami, and Javed Mirza. Nicole M. Argentieri, the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department's Criminal Division, stated that the accused individuals allegedly created and operated an online marketplace for a prolonged period, facilitating the sale of illegal goods and services used in cybercrimes, including ransomware attacks and financial fraud.
The announcement highlights the Justice Department's actions in dismantling the PopeyeTools domain, filing criminal charges against its operators, and seizing cryptocurrency assets. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for each charge. This development underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat cybercrime and hold accountable those who exploit digital platforms for illegal activities. The case serves as a reminder of the significant legal consequences associated with operating or participating in cybercriminal enterprises.