US, UK, Australia Sanction Russian Company Media Land Over Ransomware

The United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom announced joint sanctions on Wednesday against Media Land, a Russia-based web company, accusing it of supporting ransomware operations that target organizations worldwide.

The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) also imposed sanctions on three senior executives of Media Land and three related companies, citing their involvement in activities that aid cybercriminals. The move aims to cut off the company’s access to the international financial system and limit its ability to fund ransomware attacks.

Officials said the sanctions are part of a broader effort by allied nations to combat cybercrime and hold entities accountable for supporting online criminal networks. The coordinated action demonstrates the growing focus on cybersecurity threats originating from Russia, which have increasingly targeted businesses, governments, and critical infrastructure globally.

By targeting both the company and its leadership, the U.S., UK, and Australia intend to pressure Media Land to halt its operations and reduce the risk of ransomware attacks affecting organizations and individuals. The sanctions prevent Media Land and its executives from doing business with U.S., British, or Australian companies and freeze any assets they hold in these countries.

The Treasury Department warned that anyone who facilitates transactions with Media Land could face penalties, emphasizing the seriousness of the crackdown. Officials also highlighted ongoing international cooperation to prevent cybercriminals from exploiting technology to harm global digital networks.

The announcement comes amid growing concerns about ransomware attacks, which have disrupted services and caused significant financial losses worldwide. Governments continue to strengthen cybersecurity measures and take legal and economic action against companies that enable or profit from cybercrime.