The United States has charged Brazilian citizen Junior Barros de Oliveira with extorting money from companies after hacking their networks in March 2020. The accused stole the confidential data of about 300,000 customers and threatened to sell them
In September 2020, using a fictitious name, de Oliveira contacted the company’s CEO and later other representatives and demanded payment. He also offered “consulting services” for 75 bitcoins. For each of the four counts of extortion, the defendant faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The four counts of wiretapping also carry a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a similar fine.
This case is just one of many examples of cyber attacks on businesses aimed at stealing sensitive data and subsequent extortion. Such attacks are a growing threat to businesses, especially in the digital age where Bitcoin is widely used as a means of payment by extortionists.
The case of Junior Barros de Oliveira highlights the importance of companies investing in cyber security and data protection. It is also a warning about the risks associated with improper information security management.
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