Millions in crypto funded tools to exploit U.S. software, Treasury says in new sanctions

The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned the Russian company Operation Zero and its principals, including Sergey Sergeyevich Zelenyuk, for acquiring stolen cyber tools using millions in cryptocurrency and then reselling them. These tools were originally developed for the exclusive use of the U.S. government and its allies by a defense contractor. The tools were reportedly sold by an Australian national, Peter Williams, who previously pleaded guilty to selling trade secrets. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the action protects American intellectual property. Zelenyuk and others are the first sanctioned under the Protecting American Intellectual Property Act, resulting in blocked U.S. dealings with them. Operation Zero allegedly sought to recruit hackers and develop ties with foreign intelligence agencies, offering the exploited software tools for sale.

(Source：CoinDesk)