The Justice Department has introduced significant legal action against two Russian-sponsored cybercrime groups, CyberArmyofRussia_Reborn (CARR) and NoName057(16). These developments highlight a targeted effort to counter Russian cyber activities that threaten critical infrastructure in the United States and across the globe.
Indictments and Key Players
Ukrainian national Victoria Eduardovna Dubranova, 33, has been indicted for her involvement in cyberattacks supporting these groups. Also known by aliases such as Vika and SovaSonya, Dubranova was extradited to the U.S. and has pleaded not guilty to charges related to supporting both CARR and NoName. Her trial for the NoName case is set to begin on February 3, 2026, while the CARR case is scheduled for April 7, 2026.
CyberArmyofRussia_Reborn (CARR)
CARR, allegedly backed by the Russian military’s GRU, has claimed responsibility for numerous cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure. The group utilizes external financing to engage in various cybercriminal activities, notably through DDoS-for-hire services.
- Victims include U.S. public drinking water systems, leading to significant environmental damage.
- Attacks have also disrupted operations at a meat processing facility in Los Angeles.
- CARR has targeted U.S. election systems and nuclear regulatory websites.
Dubranova faces multiple charges connected to CARR, including conspiracy to damage protected computers and tampering with public water systems. If found guilty, she could face a maximum of 27 years in prison.
NoName057(16)
NoName, another group allegedly operating under Russian auspices, primarily conducts DDoS attacks against various global victims. This organization was partly formed by the Center for the Study and Network Monitoring of the Youth Environment (CISM), established by the Russian president in October 2018.
- NoName has targeted government agencies and financial institutions.
- It employs a proprietary tool named DDoSia for its operations.
- The group incentivizes volunteer attackers with cryptocurrency payments.
In relation to NoName, Dubranova faces one charge of conspiracy to damage protected computers, with a potential maximum penalty of five years in federal prison if convicted.
Government Response and Collaboration
U.S. officials have stated that Russian state-sponsored hacktivist groups present a significant national security challenge. John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, emphasized the commitment to dismantling Russian cyber threats aimed at U.S. interests.
The FBI has partnered with various agencies, including CISA and the EPA, to combat these threats. Cybersecurity advisories have been issued, warning about the tactics used by groups like CARR and NoName to infiltrate critical infrastructure.
Incentives for Information
The U.S. Department of State has offered financial rewards for information leading to arrests connected with CARR and NoName, showcasing a proactive approach to tackling cybercrime.
| Group | Reward |
|---|---|
| CARR | $2 million |
| NoName | $10 million |
As these legal proceedings unfold, the Justice Department’s actions signal a firm stance against malicious cyber activity, aiming to safeguard essential services and protect American infrastructure. All indicted individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
