Boy, 17, arrested in Walsall over FBI cyber investigation

A 17-year-old boy from Walsall has been arrested in connection with a global cyber online crime group.

It's believed a group have been targeting large organisations with ransomware and gaining access to computer networks.

Officers from the West Midlands Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) worked in coordination with the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to make the arrest at an address in the town on Thursday (July 18).

The suspect was taken into custody on suspicion of Blackmail and Computer Misuse Act offences and has been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Evidence was also found at the address, including a number of digital devices which will undergo forensic examination.

The arrest is part of a global investigation into a large scale cyber hacking community which has targeted a number of major companies which includes MGM Resorts in America.

Detective Inspector Hinesh Mehta, Cyber Crime Unit Manager, at ROCUWM, said: “This arrest has been made following a complex investigation which stretches overseas to America.

"We have been working closely with the National Crime Agency and FBI.

"These cyber groups have targeted well known organisations with ransomware and they have successfully targeted multiple victims around the world taking from them significant amounts of money.

"We want to send out a clear message that we will find you. It’s simply not worth it.”

Microsoft said: "Today sends a strong message to cybercriminals: there will be consequences for your actions.

"Microsoft commends law enforcement for taking action against those that seek to cause harm, and we remain committed to collaborating with others across the public and private sector to collectively combat cyber threats and make the Internet a safer place.

"As this outcome shows, we have greater impact when we come together to fight cybercrime."

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