The United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom have jointly imposed sanctions on Media Land, a Russia-based bulletproof hosting company, and its network. Authorities say Media Land has supported online criminal marketplaces and ransomware groups such as Lockbit, BlackSuit, and Play. These groups have targeted businesses in the United States and globally.
In addition to these measures, both the United States and the United Kingdom are sanctioning individuals connected to Aeza Group. The Aeza Group is another bulletproof hosting provider that was sanctioned by the U.S. earlier this year for supplying web hosting services to ransomware organizations. Some of these organizations have attacked U.S. defense contractors and technology firms. The newly sanctioned parties are accused of helping Aeza Group try to circumvent existing sanctions.
Bulletproof hosting service providers are known for selling cybercriminals access to computer infrastructure used in illicit activities against companies worldwide. To address these risks, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has issued new guidance in cooperation with law enforcement agencies and international partners on how organizations can reduce their exposure to threats from such providers.
A spokesperson stated: "Today’s designations demonstrate that the United States, in partnership with its allies, is firmly committed to protecting Americans from cybercrime."
These actions were taken under Executive Order 13694, as amended. Additional details about the sanctions can be found in a press release from the Department of the Treasury.
