U.S. Charges British Hacker with Data Theft, Seeks Extradition from France

Illustration shows the word "Cybercrime"

The U.S. Department of Justice has announced charges against British national Kai West for a series of cybercrime offenses, including data theft and unauthorized access to computer networks. West, who was arrested in France in February, is currently the subject of a U.S. extradition request.

Prosecutors allege that West operated under the alias “IntelBroker” and was part of a global network of hackers involved in infiltrating victim computer systems, stealing sensitive data, and selling or distributing it through underground cybercrime platforms. The Justice Department stated that West’s actions caused millions of dollars in damage to numerous victims worldwide, including a major U.S.-based telecommunications company.

A four-count indictment and complaint unsealed on Wednesday charges West with two counts that each carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and two additional counts that carry up to 20 years each.

While U.S. authorities have not publicly named the forum where the stolen data was sold, French outlets have identified the platform as BreachForums, a well-known hub for cybercriminal activity and illicit data exchange.

French media also reported that four additional individuals were arrested in France earlier this week in connection with the ongoing international investigation into the data theft ring.

The Justice Department emphasized the severity of the charges and reiterated its commitment to pursuing international cybercriminals through cooperation with law enforcement partners abroad.