$115 Million Ransomware Hacker Arrested Over Extortion Attacks
A teenage hacker from the UK has been arrested on charges of money laundering conspiracy, computer fraud, and wire fraud conspiracy, in a shocking turn of events that sheds light on the dark world of cybercrime. Thalha Jubair, 19 years old, is accused of being part of the infamous "Scattered Spider" hacking group, which allegedly extorted over $115 million from close to 50 victims in America, alongside various attacks in the UK.
According to the Department of Justice, Jubair was involved in at least 120 different computer network intrusions over a three-year period, starting in 2022. The complaint filed with the District of New Jersey accuses Jubair of targeting 47 U.S. entities, using social engineering techniques to gain access to corporate networks and then stealing data or using ransomware attacks to blackmail and extort businesses for profit.
The FBI Newark field office is investigating the case in conjunction with the UK National Crime Agency, City of London Police, as well as police agencies in the Netherlands, Romania, Canada, and Australia. Jubair's alleged involvement in controlling the money extracted from victims is particularly noteworthy, with portions of the ransom payments sent to cryptocurrency wallets controlled by him. In July 2024, when law enforcement seized the server storing the wallets containing cryptocurrency worth some $36 million, Jubair allegedly transferred some of those tokens to another wallet, resulting in a reported net worth of $8.4 million.
"The arrest of Thalha Jubair underscores an undeniable truth: no matter how elusive or destructive these cyber-criminal syndicates are, we will continue to pursue those who allegedly extort our businesses and ensure they are held accountable," said Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy for the FBI. This statement highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies worldwide to combat cybercrime and bring perpetrators to justice.
Jubair was arrested in London and formally charged on September 18, alongside additional charges related to an attack against Transport for London (TFL) infrastructure in August 2024, where customer data, including names, contact details, and addresses, were compromised. London police also arrested a fellow accused hacker, 18-year-old Owen Flowers, who faces additional charges in the U.S., too, for involvement in the TFL hack.
Flowers is also accused of attacking health companies SSM Health Care Corporation and Sutter Health. The arrest of Thalha Jubair and his alleged accomplices serves as a reminder that cybercrime will not be tolerated, and those responsible will face justice. As law enforcement agencies continue to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of cybercrime, it is essential for individuals and businesses alike to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect themselves from these threats.
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