The Ministry of Interior announced that, in its efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and combat fraud, the Department of Combating Cybercrime successfully dismantled an international cybercriminal group of Chinese nationals. The group was involved in large-scale cyberattacks targeting telecommunications towers and banks in Kuwait, according to Al Jarida newspaper.
The ministry stated in a press release on Thursday that the incident details stemmed from reports from telecommunications companies and banks about their networks being exposed to cyberattacks.
In response, the competent security teams immediately began searches and investigations. It was found that the attacks were caused by external interference from advanced electronic devices, which allowed the gang to penetrate communication networks and broadcast fraudulent messages impersonating certain banks to steal bank account data and seize funds.
Through signal-tracking devices, the source of the suspicious signals was identified by the competent team and traced to a vehicle in the Farwaniya area. The security teams quickly moved to the location, where the suspicious vehicle was monitored. Upon approaching it, the mobile phone network’s impact and sounds of electronic devices were heard from inside. The driver, a Chinese national, was apprehended, along with the electronic devices, which were seized.
After obtaining permission from the Public Prosecution, his residence was searched, revealing additional devices and technical tools used to analyze the compromised data.
The ministry indicated that, during the investigation, the accused confessed to collaborating with others in hacking communication networks and sending fraudulent messages impersonating banks and telecom companies for the purpose of committing fraud.
Following the completion of the search and investigations, the identities of the remaining members of the criminal group were determined, and they were arrested. The inquiry, using biometric fingerprinting, revealed that their actual identities did not match the ones they had used, exposing their involvement in forgery to conceal their true identities and evade law enforcement.
The accused have been referred to the relevant authorities for legal action. The ministry emphasized its full commitment to confronting anyone who threatens the security of the country, underscoring the importance of enhancing cybersecurity as part of its strategy to protect the nation and society.
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The ministry also continues to upgrade its security systems and technologies to address modern challenges, ensuring the protection of data and information from digital threats.
