DeKalb GA News

The FBI has issued a wanted poster for 14 North Korean nationals following their indictment for fraud and theft targeting U.S. companies and nonprofits. The individuals, posing as American IT workers, are accused of stealing $88 million over six years.

The conspirators worked for DPRK-controlled companies Yanbian Silverstar and Volasys Silverstar, based in China and Russia. They allegedly used false identities to secure remote employment with U.S. firms, siphoning funds back to North Korea. Some were instructed to earn at least $10,000 monthly, resorting to extortion by threatening to leak sensitive information unless paid.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco stated, "To prop up its brutal regime, the North Korean government directs IT workers to gain employment through fraud, steal sensitive information from U.S. companies, and siphon money back to the DPRK." She warned global companies about potential malicious activities by the DPRK regime.

A federal court in St. Louis indicted the workers on charges including conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, and identity theft. Eight face additional charges of aggravated identity theft, each facing up to 27 years in prison if convicted.

The FBI's efforts against this group have been ongoing for two years. In recent actions, they seized significant amounts of money and internet domains linked to the alleged schemes.

Individuals with information on these suspects are urged to contact local FBI offices or submit tips online.