An American citizen is facing sentencing for playing a key role in a covert scheme that enabled North Korean IT workers to infiltrate hundreds of Fortune 500 companies, earning $17.1 million through fraudulent contracts and remote employment.
According to U.S. authorities, the individual helped orchestrate the operation by facilitating false identities and enabling the North Korean workers to pose as freelancers and tech consultants. These workers secretly funneled earnings back to the regime, in violation of international sanctions.
The Justice Department said the scam not only defrauded major corporations but also served to bankroll Pyongyang’s illicit weapons programs. Prosecutors argue the American’s cooperation was instrumental in helping North Korea bypass global restrictions by exploiting the remote work economy.
Sentencing is expected in the coming weeks, with federal prosecutors seeking a harsh penalty to deter future violations.