This premier episode of the Digital Desperados Podcasts introduces a desperado indeed. Maksim Yakubets, known primarily as “Aqua” is a Ukranian-Russian hacker who has stolen and aided in stealing hundreds of millions of dollars. Patrick McMurphy, who’s spent years studying hackers, joins Digital Desperados to tell of Aqua’s dark deeds.

Aqua and his hacking group “Evil Corps” employ the malwares “Zeus” and “Dridex” in phishing schemes reported in over 40 countries. These malwares are capable of replicating login pages to infecting your device through attached documents, and more. One of Aqua’s most notable attacks was on the Kentucky County Treasury in 2009, when he stole $500,000.

What’s Aqua up to now? He lives a life of luxury and is still “at large” with a $5million dollar ransom offered by the FBI for information that would lead to his arrest. It’s believed he lives under the protection of the Russian government, as they benefit greatly from his hacking capabilities.

How can you protect yourself against hackers like Aqua? Beware of “scammy” emails and delete them immediately. Patrick also recommends reviewing your accounts for any suspicious activity. 

And be sure to get protection from Safernet! It’s always “on” so your devices are protected 24/7. It can stop you from pulling up false login pages or downloading infected documents. It’s a VPN, virus protection, and internet filter, all offered in one incredible app.