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UK Hacker Jubair Charged in $115M Ransomware Spree
NEWARK, N.J. – A brazen cybercriminal operating from London, England, is facing federal charges in New Jersey for orchestrating a sweeping ransomware attack that bled American businesses and organizations out of at least $115,000,000. Thalha Jubair, 19, known online as “EarthtoStar,” “Brad,” “Austin,” and “@autistic,” is accused of being a key player in the notorious “Scattered Spider” hacking group, responsible for at least 120 network intrusions targeting 47 U.S. entities.
The complaint, unsealed today, details a sophisticated scheme where Jubair and his associates allegedly used social engineering – manipulating people into giving up confidential information – to infiltrate computer networks. Once inside, they stole sensitive data, encrypted it, and demanded hefty ransom payments for its return. The attacks weren’t limited to private companies; critical infrastructure and even the federal court system were targeted, revealing the far-reaching danger of this operation.
“The charges against Jubair announced today are the result of a lengthy investigation into particular cyber threat actors, often referred to as Scattered Spider, who have victimized at least 47 U.S.-based entities, including in New Jersey,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. “As alleged by the complaint, Jubair went to great and sophisticated lengths to keep himself anonymous while he and his criminal associates continued to attack these victims and extort tens of millions of dollars in ransom payments. But thanks to the relentless investigation of this Office and our FBI and CCIPS partners, Jubair could not remain anonymous and avoid justice indefinitely.”
Federal officials are emphasizing the international scope of the investigation and the collaborative effort to bring Jubair to justice. Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division noted the “significant and growing threat posed by brazen cybercriminals,” adding that these charges “underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to keeping pace with technologically savvy bad actors and holding accountable those who seek to profit from ransomware.”
The FBI, spearheading the investigation alongside international partners like the UK’s National Crime Agency, West Midlands Police, and City of London Police, is sending a clear message: cybercriminals will be hunted down, no matter where they hide. “Today’s charges make it clear that no cybercriminal is beyond our reach,” declared Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “If you attack American companies or citizens, we will find you, we will expose you, and we will seek justice.”
Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy added, “The arrest of Thalha Jubair underscores an undeniable truth: no matter how elusive or destructive these cyber-criminal syndicates are, we will continue to pursue those who allegedly extort our businesses and ensure they are held accountable.” Jubair is charged with conspiracies to commit computer fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. If convicted, he faces a substantial prison sentence. The investigation, ongoing as of October 2024 and January 2025, promises further revelations about the Scattered Spider network and its victims.
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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