Mob Museum Launches “Digital Underworld” Exhibit on Cybercrime

The Mob Museum in Las Vegas is set to unveil its latest exhibit, “Digital Underworld,” on October 21, 2025. This new exhibition aims to highlight the evolution of cybercrime, illustrating its transformation from early hacker activities in the 1970s and 1980s to today’s advanced ransomware operations that generate significant financial losses daily.

The exhibit prominently features a live cyberthreat map, created by Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., a leader in cybersecurity solutions. This interactive display visualizes real-time cyberattacks occurring globally, providing visitors with an engaging perspective on the scale and persistence of modern cyber threats. Additionally, a wall mural and informational panel dedicated to ransomware detail how these criminal organizations function similarly to high-tech startups, with losses from ransomware attacks reaching an estimated $156 million each day.

“Cybercrime has become one of the most pressing, pervasive, and profitable threats of our time,” stated Geoff Schumacher, Vice President of Exhibits and Programs at The Mob Museum. He emphasized that the “Digital Underworld” exhibit offers essential historical context and showcases artifacts that illustrate how these crimes are executed in the digital realm, demonstrating that organized crime has shifted from physical streets to the virtual world.

According to Cindi Carter, Americas Chief Information Security Officer at Check Point Software Technologies, organizations faced an average of 1,900 cyberattacks per week in September 2025, with ransomware incidents increasing by 46% year-over-year. “Crime has moved from streets to screens — exploiting trust, distraction, and our digital dependence,” she remarked. Carter added that the collaboration with The Mob Museum aims not just to raise awareness but to empower visitors to protect their digital lives.

The exhibit will showcase various artifacts that highlight the history and tools of cybercrime. Among the items on display is a floppy disk containing the Form.A virus, donated by cybersecurity expert Mikko Hyppönen. Visitors will also encounter a Cap’n Crunch cereal toy whistle, used in the past to manipulate payphone systems, along with hacking tools previously owned by reformed hacker Brian Markus. Further, a book authored by Joseph Popp, who created the first ransomware in 1989, will also be featured.

“Digital Underworld” will be located within the Organized Crime Today gallery on the first floor of The Mob Museum and will be accessible daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.. Admission to the exhibit is included with the general museum ticket. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the museum’s website.

The Mob Museum, officially known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing an in-depth look at the history of organized crime. It features numerous interactive exhibits and has received multiple accolades, including recognition as one of Tripadvisor’s “Top 25 U.S. Museums” and a “Travelers’ Choice” Award recipient for three consecutive years.

For those interested in exploring the intersection of crime and technology, “Digital Underworld” promises to be a thought-provoking experience, shedding light on the ongoing challenges posed by cybercriminals in the digital age.