Algiers law enforcement has apprehended an individual suspected of orchestrating a massive wave of cyberattacks. The arrest follows an investigation initiated after the suspect was flagged by Interpol as part of ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime.
The Cybercrime Unit of the Algiers Judicial Police successfully detained the suspect on charges related to the design, provision, and dissemination of technical data used to fraudulently access automated data processing systems. The case originated with the discovery of an online platform offering phishing website creation services designed to compromise electronic accounts. Investigators also uncovered numerous accounts spreading malicious links while impersonating well-known figures, using their images alongside fraudulent links to facilitate breaches.
Security services conducted extensive technical investigations and electronic surveillance, which ultimately led to the identification of the suspect. Review of numerous online articles from international cybersecurity news outlets confirmed the extent of the platform operator’s criminal activity since 2020, estimating the number of cyberattacks at approximately 140,000.
Based on this evidence, authorization was obtained to extend the jurisdiction of the investigation to an interior province, where the suspect was apprehended. Authorities seized a laptop, a central processing unit, four external hard drives, and two mobile phones. Following the completion of legal procedures, the suspect was presented before the relevant regional prosecutor’s office with a criminal case file.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
