Smartbytes Listed by thegentlemen Ransomware Group: Ransomware Claim — What’s Alleged & What To Do

Ransomware groups continue to target organisations across sectors by combining encryption with data theft, then using public leak sites to pressure victims. In this case, the Panama-based technology firm Smartbytes appeared on a listing associated with the group thegentlemen on 24 February 2026. Public information confirms only that internal files were stated to have been taken; the number of people affected and the precise contents of those files remain undisclosed.

What happened

The incident came to light through a listing on a site operated by thegentlemen ransomware group. The entry names Smartbytes and indicates that internal files were exfiltrated during a ransomware operation. No further details on the timing of the intrusion, the volume of data, or the method of initial access have been made public. The organisation has not issued a statement confirming or denying the claims at the time of reporting.

The group behind it: thegentlemen

Thegentlemen is a ransomware operation that maintains a leak site where it lists organisations it claims to have targeted. Such groups typically combine file encryption on victim systems with the removal of data copies, then publish samples or file lists to encourage payment. The listing of Smartbytes constitutes the group’s claim; independent verification of the data’s authenticity or scope has not been reported.

About Smartbytes

Smartbytes operates from Panama as a technology services provider. The company describes itself as a partner that develops custom solutions for businesses facing complex technical challenges. Organisations of this type routinely handle client project files, internal communications, configuration data, and administrative records in the course of their work.

What data was at risk

The only detail released is that internal files were allegedly exfiltrated. No inventory of specific file types, client records, or personal information has been published. Because the exact contents remain unconfirmed, it is not possible to state which categories of data, if any, were involved beyond the general description of internal files.

Why it matters

Technology service providers often store information belonging to multiple client organisations. Exposure of internal files can therefore create secondary risks for those clients even when the provider itself is the direct target. For individuals, the practical consequences depend on whether any personal or account-related material was among the files—an issue that cannot be assessed from currently available information.

Were you affected?

Individuals who have conducted business with Smartbytes or similar providers can monitor official statements from the company for further updates. A practical first step is to review recent account activity on any services that may have shared data with the organisation. Readers may also run a free exposure scan of their email address against known breach data sets to check for appearances in previously published records.

AICompiled with AI assistance from public sources and published under our editorial standards.