Victim Advisory – Aleksei Burkov Case Updates

CASE NAME: United States v. Aleksei Burkov, Criminal Case No. 1:15-cr-245

COURT: U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division

CASE SUMMARY: On January 23, Aleksei Burkov pleaded guilty to access device fraud and conspiracy to commit computer intrusion, identity theft, wire and access device fraud, and money laundering. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison when sentenced on May 8.

According to court documents, Burkov operated a website called “Cardplanet” that sold payment card numbers (e.g., debit and credit cards) that had been stolen primarily through computer intrusions.  Many of the cards offered for sale belonged to United States citizens. The stolen credit card data sold on Burkov’s site has resulted in over $20 million in fraudulent purchases made on United States credit cards.  Additionally, Burkov ran another website that served as an invite-only club where elite cybercriminals could advertise stolen goods, such as personal identifying information and malicious software, and criminal services, such as money laundering and hacking services.

CASE STATUS: Burkov is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8. 

VICTIM RESPONSE: To ensure that members of the public, including potential victims of Burkov’s fraud, are informed of developments in this ongoing case, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has established a page on its website, available at the following link: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/united-states-v-aleksei-burkov.

The website currently includes a copy of the superseding indictment, plea agreement, and statement of facts filed in this case. Victims with questions can call 1-844-527-5299 and reference the above case name and docket number. Victim impact statements can be emailed to EDVA Victim Witness, or mailed to:

U.S. Attorney’s Office

Attn: Victim Witness

2100 Jamieson Avenue

Alexandria, VA 22314