NetWalker Ransomware Operator Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

A Romanian man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for his involvement in the notorious NetWalker ransomware attacks.

The sentencing, which took place in the Middle District of Florida, also included a forfeiture order of $21.5 million in illicit proceeds, as well as restitution payments totaling $14,991,580.01.

Daniel Christian Hulea, 30, of Jucu de Mijloc, Cluj, Romania, was a key figure in the NetWalker ransomware scheme, which targeted hundreds of victims worldwide, including critical sectors such as healthcare, municipalities, and educational institutions.

These attacks were particularly egregious during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they exploited global vulnerabilities and caused widespread disruption.

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Hulea pleaded guilty in June to charges of conspiracy to commit computer fraud and wire fraud.

The U.S government court documents revealed that he had used the sophisticated NetWalker ransomware to extort approximately 1,595 bitcoin in ransom payments, valued at $21.5 million at the time of the transactions.

The proceeds were used to fund lavish investments, including a luxury resort property under construction in Bali, Indonesia.

The case marks a significant milestone in international law enforcement collaboration. Hulea was apprehended in his hometown of Cluj by Romanian authorities on July 11, 2023, following a request from the United States. He was later extradited under the U.S.-Romania extradition treaty.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri commended the efforts of law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of holding cybercriminals accountable.

U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida and FBI Tampa Field Office Special Agent in Charge Matthew W. Fodor echoed these sentiments, highlighting the extensive investigation that led to Hulea’s arrest and conviction.

The FBI Tampa Field Office spearheaded the investigation, with critical support from the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Marshals Service, which facilitated Hulea’s extradition.

Trial Attorney Sonia V. Jimenez and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlton C. Gammons and Suzanne Nebesky played pivotal roles in prosecuting the case.

This sentencing sends a strong message that cybercrime will not go unpunished and underscores the global commitment to combating ransomware operations.

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