Science & Tech · Cybersecurity · 2 hrs ago
South Korean police arrest seven over AI-assisted data theft
South Korean police arrested seven people over a data-theft ring accused of targeting hospitals, private academies and businesses.
Police say the group stole 8.2 million pieces of personal information and internal records from more than 90 entities.
The suspects allegedly used AI tools to hack 60 targets and tried to extort some of them.
They demanded a total of 360 million won, but reportedly received only 300,000 won from one small business.
The stolen information included names, registration numbers, phone numbers and addresses; payment information was not taken.
Police say the stolen data has not appeared on the dark web, while 38 entities suffered losses of an unspecified total value.
The alleged 32-year-old ringleader has been referred to prosecutors, and the other suspects are being questioned.
South Korean police arrested seven suspects over the alleged theft of 8.2 million pieces of personal information and other records.
The group allegedly accessed data from more than 90 entities, including hospitals, private academies and businesses.
Police say AI tools were used to hack 60 targets and that the suspects tried to extort some of them.
The group demanded a combined 360 million won from affected entities, while one report says it received 300,000 won.
Thirty-eight targeted entities reportedly suffered losses.
- Who
- Seven suspects, including a 32-year-old alleged ringleader.
- What
- They allegedly stole personal data and other records using AI tools and attempted to extort some of the affected entities.
- When
- The alleged activity continued until recently, from September last year. The arrests took place between July and September, according to one report.
- Where
- South Korea, targeting more than 90 entities.
- Why
- The suspects allegedly sought to extort money from some of the targeted entities.
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The group allegedly stole records from more than 90 entities during this period.
Police received a complaint from an affected company.
Police arrested seven individuals, according to PC Gamer.
Police referred the alleged ringleader to the prosecution while he was under physical detention.
- Suspects
- Seven
- Stolen records
- 8.2 million pieces of personal data and other internal records
- Entities accessed
- More than 90
- Targets hacked with AI tools
- 60
- Entities reporting losses
- 38
- Ransom demanded
- 360 million won
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What people are saying
If the data breach becomes public, the company’s reputation will be damaged, and government fines may be imposed.