Crypto
Former Northland man sentenced for ‘cryptojacking’ scheme
ST. PAUL — A former Northland resident will repay more than $45,000 to his former employer for misusing their computer systems to mine cryptocurrency for personal gain.
Joshua Paul Armbrust, 45, was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Jerry Blackwell to three years of probation following his
April guilty plea to a felony count of computer fraud.
Armbrust, according to court documents, continued to use the resources of Digital River, a Minnetonka-based global e-commerce and payment processing company, for more than a year after he resigned in February 2020.
Through the scheme known as “cryptojacking,” he took advantage of the now-defunct company’s computing power to obtain and liquidate $5,895 worth of Ethereum — while forcing Digital River to absorb $45,270 worth of web service fees.
“The defendant’s conduct strikes at the core of digital trust and security in the modern economy,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley Endicott told the court. “Companies rely on former employees to act ethically, even after separation, and to respect corporate systems and data.
“Unauthorized access to corporate cloud infrastructure not only creates financial harm, as in this case, but also exposes sensitive systems to potential compromise and opens the door to more severe cyber threats.”
Armbrust was
living in Orr when he was indicted by a federal grand jury last November.
Records indicate he has since relocated to St. Paul and is working for an insurance company.
Endicott said the scheme came to light only because Digital River, which went out of business in January, conducted an internal investigation and discovered the unauthorized activity, which was then traced back to Armbrust’s IP address.
Defense attorney William Mauzy told the court Armbrust had been given a code to access Amazon Web Services, which hosted programs that Digital River was using to mine cryptocurrency.
After leaving the job, the defendant used that same code to build a program to generate cryptocurrency for himself — leveraging the services between 6 p.m. and 7 a.m. daily, and then transferring the Ethereum into a digital wallet he controlled.
Endicott said it was “not a momentary lapse in judgment” but a “calculated and covert misuse of enterprise-level computing resources for private enrichment.” It “resulted in real monetary losses, investigative costs and operational disruption to a private company.”
“The defendant is clearly a capable and technically skilled individual,” the prosecutor said. “But instead of using those talents for constructive and lawful purposes, he chose to exploit his former employer for personal gain. It is disappointing that someone with this ability used his skills to steal.”
Mauzy, though, noted the scheme occurred “during a time of extreme financial need and considerable emotional distress,” as Armbrust was caring for his mother, who was in deteriorating health and has since died.
The attorney said the evidence clearly shows his client was not a “malicious hacker” who set out to disable his former employer’s computer systems. He made no efforts to cover his tracks and has accepted responsibility for the financial losses.
“Armbrust’s conduct, while criminal, was an act of desperation and despair,” Mauzy wrote, “not a crime of greed.”
The probationary term was expected, as both sides jointly recommended it under the plea agreement. Armbrust has no prior criminal history.
The FBI handled the investigation.
Tom Olsen covers crime and courts and the 8th Congressional District for the Duluth News Tribune since 2013. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Duluth and a lifelong resident of the city. Readers can contact Olsen at 218-723-5333 or tolsen@duluthnews.com.
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Cryptocurrency’s Next Chapter: ETF Outflows and Fintech Solutions – OneSafe Blog
The cryptocurrency market is in a state of flux, particularly as Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs face a wave of significant outflows that raise eyebrows regarding investor confidence. Meanwhile, fintech startups are stepping up to the plate, especially in areas like crypto payroll and solutions powered by stablecoins. Let’s delve into how these trends are redefining the landscape of digital assets and what they may signify going forward.
ETF Outflows: A Sign of Caution?
Recent reports indicate that there have been substantial outflows from spot Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) ETFs, amounting to around $188.6 million. This suggests that investors are treading carefully amidst ongoing regulatory uncertainties, which could lead to a reassessment of positions in these major cryptocurrencies. BlackRock’s IBIT, for example, experienced a record single-day outflow of $91.37 million, which has undoubtedly sent ripples through the market.
The implications of these outflows are immediate and significant. Investor confidence is shaken, and the market dynamics are in flux. While BTC and ETH ETFs are seeing withdrawals, the Solana ETFs are drawing inflows, hinting at a dichotomy in investment behavior. This outflow trend may set the stage for increased volatility in key market assets.
Stablecoins: The New Frontier for Institutions
Despite the aforementioned outflows, institutional interest in stablecoins is on the rise. More and more, investors are seeking safer, low-volatility options. Stablecoins like USDC and USDT are increasingly seen as attractive alternatives. This isn’t just a retreat from cryptocurrencies; it’s a strategic pivot toward more stable financial instruments.
The growing acceptance of stablecoins is evident in various sectors. Businesses are utilizing them to facilitate international payments, benefiting from low fees and quick settlements. This trend underscores the evolving nature of cryptocurrency, positioning stablecoins as a viable alternative to traditional fiat currencies.
Crypto Payroll: A Fintech Revolution
Fintech startups are leading the charge in innovation, especially in the sphere of crypto payroll solutions. By opting for stablecoins to compensate employees, these companies are streamlining their payment processes while hedging against the risks of cryptocurrency volatility. It’s a way to attract tech-savvy talent while navigating regulatory complexities.
This move toward crypto payroll is particularly advantageous for startups operating in a global marketplace. With stablecoins, these companies can handle cross-border payments efficiently, thereby cutting costs and improving operational efficiency. This trend points to a larger movement towards adopting digital currencies in daily business operations.
The Case for Blockchain in Cross-Border Payments
The rise of stablecoins carries significant implications for cross-border payments. Traditional methods, such as SWIFT, are often burdened with high fees and protracted processing times. Blockchain technology, on the other hand, allows for almost instantaneous transactions at a fraction of the cost. This is particularly beneficial for businesses involved in international trade, enabling them to conduct financial operations smoothly.
Moreover, the adoption of crypto payroll solutions is gaining traction in various sectors, including gaming and streaming. Companies are increasingly offering salaries in cryptocurrencies, tapping into a trend that appeals to younger, tech-oriented employees. This innovative approach not only boosts employee satisfaction but also positions businesses as forward-thinking competitors.
Regulatory Challenges Ahead
As the cryptocurrency landscape shifts, so too does the regulatory environment. Fintech startups are adapting by developing user-friendly platforms that emphasize compliance and risk management. By utilizing stablecoins and regulated platforms, businesses can navigate the complexities of the changing regulatory landscape while enhancing their operational capabilities.
The integration of decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions is also becoming more prominent, providing SMEs with alternative financing avenues as regulations tighten. This approach allows businesses to access capital while remaining compliant with new regulatory frameworks, setting the stage for success in a fast-evolving market.
Summary: A New Era for Cryptocurrency
The recent outflows from Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs mark a crucial juncture in the cryptocurrency market. However, the rise of fintech innovations, particularly in stablecoin adoption and crypto payroll solutions, offers a glimmer of hope for the future. As businesses maneuver through regulatory challenges and shifts in investor sentiment, the integration of digital currencies into everyday operations is likely to gain momentum.
In summary, while the current landscape may be filled with uncertainty, fintech startups are showcasing adaptability and resilience, paving the way for a new chapter in cryptocurrency. By embracing innovation and focusing on compliance, these companies are not only weathering the storm but also shaping the future of digital assets.
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