55/68 Monday, February 10, 2025
Spanish police and the Civil Guard have successfully arrested a key suspect in a major cybercrime case, known as “Natohub” on the Breach Forums platform. The suspect is accused of orchestrating over 40 cyberattacks targeting both government and private sector organizations in Spain and internationally. These attacks involved breaches of personal data and confidential documents. Affected institutions in Spain include the Spanish Ministry of Defense, the Civil Guard, and multiple universities. Internationally, high-profile organizations such as NATO, the U.S. military, the United Nations, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) were also impacted.
ICAO acknowledged the breach last month after Natohub leaked sensitive data on Breach Forums, claiming to possess personal information of over 14,000 UN representatives and approximately 42,000 job application records dating from 2016 to 2024. These cyberattacks caused significant damage to computer systems and critical data of various organizations. Authorities stated that the arrest followed a thorough investigation that began in February 2024, after a business association in Madrid reported that its data had been exposed on a data-leak forum.
Investigators found that Natohub used anonymous messaging apps and sophisticated technical tools to build a cyberattack network, making it difficult to trace. Law enforcement seized computer equipment, an iPhone, and approximately 50 cryptocurrency accounts from the suspect’s residence. The suspect, an 18-year-old, was released on bail after appearing in court, with a passport confiscation order imposed as a condition. The arrest was made possible through international cooperation, including EUROPOL and the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as part of a broader effort to crack down on cybercrime originating from Spain.
Source https://hackread.com/teen-hacker-natohub-caught-nato-un-us-army-breach/
