A federal grand jury in Nebraska has delivered a substantial blow to an international cybercrime operation. In a recent indictment, 87 individuals were charged for their involvement in a complex ATM "jackpotting" scheme orchestrated by the Venezuelan criminal group known as Tren de Aragua (TdA). The indictment includes 32 counts, ranging from conspiracy to commit bank fraud to bank burglary and computer crimes.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has identified the TdA as the mastermind behind a conspiracy that has siphoned millions of dollars from ATMs across the United States. The funds were used to support the gang's wider criminal activities, which include human trafficking, kidnapping, and murder.
The technique employed by the conspirators involved sophisticated malware, notably variants of the Ploutus family, to manipulate ATM systems and trigger unauthorized cash dispensing. This form of digital theft represents a significant advancement in the method of operations for criminal organizations, with experts noting the sophistication of the attacks.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has condemned the TdA as "a complex terrorist organization" and reiterated the DOJ's commitment to dismantling its operations within the U.S. Bondi praised the coordinated effort of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in tackling the nationwide conspiracy.
U.S. Attorney Lesley A. Woods described the indictments as a crucial step in halting TdA's ability to "terrorize American communities." She emphasized that the jackpotting scheme was a financial lifeline for the organization's pattern of violent and illicit activity.
The TdA, which originated as a Venezuelan prison gang, has evolved into a transnational criminal organization with a footprint extending across the Americas. The gang has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and is responsible for a wide array of criminal activities.
Federal law enforcement officials warn that older ATMs with outdated software are particularly susceptible to attacks by Ploutus and other similar malware. The investigation, led by the FBI Omaha Field Office and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Omaha, reflects a concerted national effort to disrupt transnational criminal organizations and cyber-enabled financial crimes.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche underscored the ongoing efforts of Joint Task Force Vulcan to eradicate TdA and similar groups that exploit U.S. infrastructure to fund terror and crime. The recent indictments serve as a reminder of the persistent threat posed by cybercrime linked to organized crime and the DOJ's focus on prosecuting such networks.
The charged defendants now face sentences ranging from 20 to 335 years if convicted. The continuous efforts of the DOJ and its partner agencies manifest a staunch resolve to protect national financial infrastructure and maintain public safety against evolving cyber threats.
