Europol Leads Operation to Take Down Ransomware Group and Arrest Hackers
A major operation led by Europol, the European Union’s top law enforcement agency, has resulted in the arrest of four individuals and the dismantling of over 100 servers connected to a group of hackers and malware creators. The operation, named “Operation Endgame,” took place between May 27 and 29 and is being hailed as the largest ever operation against botnets. These botnets, including IcedID, SystemBC, Pikabot, Smokeloader, Bumblebee, and Trickbot, are responsible for deploying malicious software, such as ransomware, through a network of linked computers.
The hackers gained access to the networks of well-known companies and then sold access to other hackers, according to the Security Service of Ukraine. Law enforcement agencies from Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States all participated in the operation.
Ted Cruz, Texas Senator, Ventures into Bitcoin Mining
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas recently revealed that he has purchased three Bitcoin mining rigs and is proud to join the ranks of Texas Bitcoin miners. Cruz shared pictures of his purchase on May 31, showcasing the Bitmain Antminer S21 195T mining rigs. These rigs are believed to be located at a hosted mining facility in Iraan, Texas.
While Cruz did not disclose the amount he paid for the mining units, they typically sell for between $3,500 and $4,500 and can generate approximately $10 worth of BTC per day. Cruz has been a vocal advocate for Bitcoin and has actively pushed for Texas to become a hub for crypto mining. In fact, he previously introduced a resolution that would require vending machine and food service contractors within the U.S. Capitol to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment.
El Salvador Airport Hotel Faces Challenges in Tokenized Fundraising
A hotel developer in El Salvador has encountered difficulties in raising the targeted $6.25 million through a tokenization offering. Inversiones Laguardia S.A. de C.V. (HILSV), the developer behind the proposed Hampton by Hilton near the El Salvador International Airport, has raised just $342,000 during the 30-day fundraising period hosted by Bitfinex Securities El Salvador.
The funds raised are intended for the construction of an 80-room hotel equipped with a pool, restaurant, and gym. Investors have the opportunity to participate in a five-year debt security that offers a 10% yearly return, with a minimum investment of $1,000. However, those who invest $1 million will receive a complimentary stay at the hotel throughout the year.
Gary Gensler Faces Criticism Over Clinton Ties
Securities and Exchange Commission chair Gary Gensler has come under fire from some crypto and tech executives due to his involvement in the Hillary Clinton 2016 presidential campaign scandal. As the chief financial officer of Clinton’s campaign, Gensler was connected to a $133,000 fine paid to the Democratic National Committee to settle an investigation regarding misreported spending on research that later became the Steele dossier.
The Steele dossier, an unfinished opposition research report, contained unverified claims of Trump’s alleged collusion with Russia during his presidential campaign. Gensler claimed to be unaware of the payments related to the dossier during his testimony before a congressional subcommittee. Despite this controversy, Gensler continues to serve as the SEC chair.
Other News
Google is making another attempt at developing metaverse goggles, despite previously laying off employees in its augmented reality department. Ethereum layer-2 builders Matter Labs have decided to drop their attempt to trademark the term “ZK,” which stands for zero knowledge proofs, following public backlash. Additionally, there is a documentary about the collapse of FTX available on Amazon Prime, with assistance from the filmmaker’s mother.