UK Man Charged for Selling Stolen Data on Dark Web Using Bitcoin (BTC), Causing $25M Losses

Kai West, operating under the pseudonym “IntelBroker,” has been formally charged by the US Southern District of New York for orchestrating a sophisticated data theft scheme on a cybercrime forum. The indictment reveals West’s involvement in selling stolen corporate data, resulting in financial damages exceeding $25 million. His criminal network, CyberNers, targeted a diverse range of entities, including a telecommunications firm, a municipal healthcare provider, and an internet service provider, along with more than 40 additional companies.

Law enforcement efforts included an undercover operation where an agent engaged with West, purchasing sensitive data for Bitcoin (BTC). This transaction confirmed West’s direct connection to the illicit marketplace, where he offered compromised credentials and administrator-level access for over $2 million. Following his arrest in France earlier this year, US authorities are actively pursuing extradition to face charges. This case underscores the growing risks associated with cybercrime in the digital asset ecosystem and highlights the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.