Florida — A Florida man who worked as a ransomware negotiator has pleaded guilty to conspiring to carry out ransomware attacks against U.S. companies in 2023, federal officials announced.
According to court documents, Angelo Martino, 41, of Land O’Lakes, abused his position at a U.S.-based cyber incident response firm to assist operators of the BlackCat/ALPHV ransomware group. While negotiating on behalf of victims, Martino secretly shared confidential information—including insurance limits and negotiation strategies—with cybercriminals to help maximize ransom payments.
Prosecutors say Martino also conspired with two other individuals, Ryan Goldberg of Georgia and Kevin Martin of Texas, to deploy ransomware attacks between April and November 2023. The group successfully extorted at least one victim for approximately $1.2 million in Bitcoin, later dividing and laundering the proceeds.
Authorities have seized more than $10 million in assets tied to Martino, including cryptocurrency, vehicles, a food truck, and a luxury fishing boat.
Martino pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit extortion affecting interstate commerce. He faces up to 20 years in prison at sentencing scheduled for July 9. His co-conspirators previously entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing.
Federal officials said the case highlights the risks of insider threats within the cybersecurity industry and underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle ransomware networks.
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