Alleged Russian cyber spy in Boston case worked for Kaspersky, source says, documents show

Denis Obrezko, a computer expert recently charged in Boston with hacking, previously worked as a senior specialist for Moscow-based antivirus firm Kaspersky Lab between 2017 and 2019. US prosecutors allege Obrezko spent the five years prior working for Russia's FSB intelligence service. Although the alleged hacking occurred after his time at Kaspersky, his background may intensify scrutiny of the company's ties to the Russian government. Kaspersky stated, "An employee with the name specified worked at the company between 2017-2019, and we have no information on the individual's current status. The offenses charged cannot be related to the individual's role or responsibilities during the employment at Kaspersky."

• Obrezko is accused of participating in a hacking group called "Void Blizzard" or "Laundry Bear," which allegedly stole emails from NATO-aligned European government agencies and US companies starting in 2023 at the behest of the Russian government.
• A US indictment links Void Blizzard to Yutek-NN, a Russian cybersecurity company where Obrezko worked as deputy director from 2024. Yutek-NN is licensed by the FSB for "covert acquisition of information."
• Obrezko is a graduate of Moscow's Bauman University, identified as a training ground for Russian government hackers.
• The US Commerce Department banned Kaspersky's software in 2024 due to security concerns, and European authorities have issued warnings against the company.