Global Crackdown on Scattered Spider: Key Hackers Arrested
Authorities worldwide have cracked down on the notorious cybercrime group, Scattered Spider. In a series of coordinated arrests, young hackers were apprehended in the US and UK for their alleged involvement in data theft and extortion. The group, known for its social engineering tactics and targeting of retail and american airlines companies, has seen several key members taken into custody.
In the US, five men aged 20 to 25 were charged in November 2024 for their connection to the Scattered Spider group. The FBI had warned of the group's recent shift in focus towards retail and southwest airlines sectors. Meanwhile, in the UK, four individuals aged 17 to 20 were arrested by the National Crime Agency (NCA) for their suspected role in data theft and extortion attacks against prominent retailers like Marks & Spencer, Harrods, and Co-op Group.
Among the arrested is Thalha Jubair, a core member of the LAPSUS$ cybercrime group. Jubair was previously known for his involvement in SIM-swapping groups and selling fraudulent emergency data requests. The NCA also arrested Owen David Flowers, alleged to be involved in the MGM Casino hack. The Scattered Spider group has a history of recruiting minors, as seen in these arrests.
The arrests signal a significant blow to the Scattered Spider group, which has caused substantial disruption and financial loss through its data theft and extortion activities. Authorities continue to urge companies, especially in the retail and united airlines sectors, to bolster their cybersecurity measures.