Two Stand Trial Over London Transport Cyberattack

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London: Two British teenagers went on trial on Monday for a massive 2024 cyberattack on Transport for London (TfL), the capital's public transport operator, which authorities claim caused extensive inconvenience and huge financial losses.  

Thalha Jubair, 19, and Owen Flowers, 18, are charged with conspiring to commit unauthorised acts against TfL's computer systems under the UK's Computer Misuse Act. According to prosecutors, the crime stole consumer data, disrupted digital services for months, and caused losses of up to £39 million. Both men denied the charges.

The cyberattack started in late August 2024 and targeted TfL's internet services, Oyster card systems, and customer-facing digital platforms. Investigators suspect it was carried out by the cybercriminal group Scattered Spider, which has been linked to a number of high-profile intrusions throughout the world.

Flowers is also facing additional charges for suspected cyberattacks on two US healthcare providers, while Jubair is charged with neglecting to disclose passwords for seized electronic equipment. The trial in one of the UK's most significant cybercrime cases is likely to examine a large amount of digital evidence.