UK national charged in connection with multiple cyber attacks, including on critical infrastructure

A complaint filed in the District of New Jersey was unsealed today charging Thalha Jubair, a United Kingdom national, with conspiracies to commit computer fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering, in relation to at least 120 computer network intrusions and extortion involving 47 U.S. entities. The complaint alleges victims paid at least $115,000,000 in ransom payments.

“Jubair is alleged to have participated in a sweeping cyber extortion scheme carried out by a group known as Scattered Spider, which committed at least 120 attacks worldwide and resulted in over $115 million in ransom payments from victims,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These malicious attacks caused widespread disruption to U.S. businesses and organizations, including critical infrastructure and the federal court system, highlighting the significant and growing threat posed by brazen cybercriminals. These charges underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to keeping pace with technologically savvy bad actors and holding accountable those who seek to profit from ransomware.”

“The charges against Jubair announced today are the result of a lengthy investigation into particular cyber threat actors, often referred to as Scattered Spider, who have victimized at least 47 U.S.-based entities, including in New Jersey,” said Alina Habba, Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney for the District of New Jersey. “As alleged by the complaint, Jubair went to great and sophisticated lengths to keep himself anonymous while he and his criminal associates continued to attack these victims and extort tens of millions of dollars in ransom payments. But thanks to the relentless investigation of this Office and our FBI and CCIPS partners, Jubair could not remain anonymous and avoid justice indefinitely. Today’s charges demonstrate my Office’s determination to identify cybercriminals and bring them to justice, wherever they are in the world.”

Read more at Department of Justice