DigitalMint employee implicated in ransomware negotiation scheme
DigitalMint incident response specialist Angelo Martino is accused of conspiring with ransomware operators, including the former ALPHV/BlackCat group. He surrendered to authorities last week and was released on bail with a condition not to work in cybersecurity until trial.
Court documents indicate that Martino, along with two accomplices, facilitated at least ten cyberattacks in coordination with ransomware criminals. He also assisted extortion efforts against DigitalMint’s clients by providing confidential data to perpetrators in exchange for rewards. The total ransom payments ranged from $6 million to $26 million, though Martino’s specific cut remains undisclosed.
DigitalMint is a cybersecurity firm specializing in incident response and data protection. Following revelations about Martino’s criminal conduct, the company terminated his employment in 2025.
This case highlights the critical internal threats within cybersecurity operations, where trusted experts may be involved in illicit activity. It underscores the vital need for rigorous personnel oversight and internal controls.
Going forward, enhanced security protocols and thorough staff vetting are expected across cybersecurity firms to prevent similar criminal collusion.
