US, French authorities confirm arrest of BreachForums hackers


U.S. and French authorities have confirmed the arrests of five hackers accused of being behind several major hacks and being part of a notorious cybercrime forum.

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Justice announced the indictment of British national Kai West, 25, accusing him of being “a serial hacker” known as IntelBroker. U.S. authorities allege West is behind “a years-long hacking scheme,” which caused more than $25 million in damages by targeting more than 40 victims, including a telecoms company, a municipal healthcare provider, and an internet service provider. In the case of the healthcare provider, the DOJ alleges West tried to sell sensitive patient’s personal information, including names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, genders, and health plan and employer information.

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Source: TechCrunch News


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