Thai police have arrested Chia, a 39-year-old Singaporean, suspected of executing cyber attacks on over 70 organizations worldwide. His arrest followed extortion threats against a Thai company. Chia confessed to hacking and selling stolen data on the dark web, with significant assets seized during the operation. He faces charges including extortion and unauthorized access to computer systems.
Thai authorities have apprehended a 39-year-old Singaporean man alleged to be involved in cyber attacks targeting over 70 organizations across multiple countries. The suspect, known as Chia, was arrested in Bangkok following a collaborative investigation with Singaporean law enforcement. Police report that Chia is accused of hacking into numerous companies, pilfering sensitive information, and subsequently selling it on the dark web.
The arrest stemmed from a complaint lodged by a Thai business, which had received threats via the social media account ‘@0mid16b’, demanding ransom to prevent the release of stolen customer data. Atip Pongsivapai, head of Thailand’s Technology Crime Suppression Division, stated that the investigation began upon receiving the extortion complaint.
Chia has reportedly confessed to illegally accessing corporate databases and selling the stolen information. Since 2020, it is estimated that he has infiltrated more than 70 organizations, including 20 based in Thailand. Items valued at approximately $300,000, including luxury goods and gold ornaments, were confiscated during the operation.
Charges against Chia include extortion, unauthorized computer access, and illegal residence in Thailand. According to Group-IB, a cybersecurity firm based in Singapore that assisted in the case, he utilized various aliases such as Altdos, Desorden, GhostR, and 0mid16B and is connected to 13 terabytes of stolen data affecting sectors including healthcare, finance, retail, and government.
The arrest of Chia represents a significant achievement in international cyber crime prevention efforts. His alleged activities, affecting numerous organizations and individuals, underscore the critical need for collaborative law enforcement efforts across borders. As authorities continue to strengthen cybersecurity measures, this case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats posed by cybercriminals in a globally interconnected digital landscape.
Original Source: tuoitrenews.vn
