A hacker in Spain has been arrested for allegedly launching cyberattacks on multiple high-profile government entities, including the U.S. Army, NATO, and the United Nations. The Spanish National Police, in collaboration with the Civil Guard, arrested the suspect in Calpe, Spain, on Tuesday, following an extensive investigation that began in February 2024. The hacker is accused of breaching various systems, including those belonging to Spain’s Ministry of Defense, Civil Guard, and several private entities, as well as engaging in illegal activities like disclosing secrets, damaging computer systems, and money laundering. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, had a network of anonymous aliases used to avoid identification and operated with over 50 cryptocurrency accounts.
The hacker’s activities have been linked to multiple cyberattacks across Spain and internationally, including compromising personal data from both Spanish citizens and foreign officials. Spanish authorities traced the suspect back to his criminal activities after a business association in Madrid filed a complaint regarding the leaking of personal information on cybercriminal forums. Investigations continued as the hacker claimed responsibility for several cyberattacks, including one on the International Civil Aviation Organization and another involving data from the United Nations. Spanish police had a difficult time tracking him due to his use of encrypted messaging apps and pseudonyms, but with help from EUROPOL and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, they were able to trace him successfully.
The hacker was involved in a series of cyberattacks targeting sensitive government systems, which involved posting hacked data on various dark web forums under pseudonyms like “Natohub.” Spanish authorities managed to connect the individual to these attacks through detailed digital evidence. Police also seized computer equipment during a raid on the hacker’s home, which is now being analyzed by experts to gather further evidence. The individual’s use of cryptocurrency was noted, as he had over 50 cryptocurrency accounts tied to different assets, raising suspicions of money laundering as part of his operations.
The arrested hacker is reported to be 18 years old, and after his court appearance, he was released but had his passport seized. The attack on NATO and the U.S. Army, along with the international nature of the hacking activities, has raised concerns about cybersecurity threats to global institutions. Spain has recently stepped up its efforts against cybercrime, with multiple arrests and collaborations with law enforcement agencies across Europe and the U.S., highlighting the growing international coordination in combating cybercriminals.
