FBI Seizes Russian-Language Ransomware Site RAMP
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) seized the dark web and clear web sites of RAMP, a predominantly Russian-language online bazaar that billed itself as the only place ransomware was allowed, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The agency is attempting to combat the growing threat to critical infrastructure and organizations worldwide, according to Ars Technica.
Visits to both sites now display pages indicating the FBI has taken control of the RAMP domains, which mirrored each other. RAMP had been among the dwindling number of online crime forums operating with impunity, following the takedown of other forums such as XSS, whose leader was arrested last year by Europol. The vacuum left RAMP as one of the leading places for online criminals.
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady
In economic news, the U.S. Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it would hold interest rates steady at around 3.6 percent, after lowering them three times last year, according to Euronews. The central bank said in a statement that there are signs the job market has stabilized, and growth was "solid," an upgrade from last month's characterization as "modest." When the Fed reduces its key rate, it tends to lower borrowing costs for things like mortgages, car loans, and business borrowing, though those rates are also influenced by market forces.
Tesla's financial results for 2025 revealed a significant downturn for the electric automaker. For the first time in Tesla's history, revenues fell year over year. Tesla published its financial results this afternoon. Earlier this month, Tesla revealed its sales and production numbers for the fourth quarter of 2025, with a 16 percent decline compared to Q4 2024, according to Ars Technica. Automotive revenues fell by 11 percent to $17.7 billion. However, double-digit growth in its energy storage business ($3.8 billion, an increase of 25 percent) and services ($3.4 billion, an increase of 18 percent) made up some of the shortfall.
Trump Administration Loosens Nuclear Safety Rules
Changes to federal nuclear safety policies by the Trump administration could accelerate reactor development, potentially at a cost to human and environmental health, according to TechCrunch. The Department of Energy has quietly changed how it oversees the safety and security of nuclear power plants built on its properties, according to a report from NPR. About a third of the rulebook has been axed, and several sections have been heavily revised. Previous requirements, including those aimed at limiting groundwater and environmental contamination, are now suggestions, and workers.
Euronews reported that Storm Kristin killed two people in Portugal and caused widespread damage.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment