The Conti Files: 2. Movies and Money Mules
Summary
This episode traces the origins of the Conti ransomware gang, revealing how its leader, known as Benny, used a Moscow film company called 25th Floor to launder money and recruit hackers. Screenwriter David Kaplan unknowingly pitched a script about cybercrime to this criminal front, while former FBI agent Keith Malarsky tracked Benny’s earlier money-mule operations. After a raid dismantled the film company, Benny rebranded as Stern and built a professional ransomware empire that targeted global organizations, including the Redcar Council.
Topics discussed
Intro and sponsor messages
Screenwriter David Kaplan meets Russian producers
Keith Malarski and the money mule network
Ad break and episode preview
David Kaplan's trip to Moscow and 25th Floor
FSB raid on 25th Floor and Benny's escape
Benny rebrands as Stern and recruits Max
The Conti gang's professional recruitment and structure
The Redcar Council ransomware attack
Mary Lanigan refuses to pay and Conti's global impact
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