Teen ‘Lizard Squad’ hacker arrested over Xbox and Sony cyber attacks

A teenager believed to be a member of hacking group Lizard Squad has been arrested in England following cyberattacks on Sony PlayStation and Xbox systems last year. The teenager was held today in Southport, Merseyside, after a joint British and FBI-led operation. He was arrested on suspicion of unauthorised access to computer material. He was also detained for alleged threats to kill, the South East  Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) said.

This arrest demonstrates that we will pursue those who commit crime with the false perception they are protected within their own homes or hiding behind anonymous online personas.

Deputy Chief Constable Peter Goodman

Investigators, supported by the National Cyber Crime Unit (NCCU), said the operation also focused on alleged “swatting” offences. Swatting involves individuals providing false information online to law enforcement agencies in the U.S. The false information suggests a threat exists so police respond with tactical units. Electronic and digital devices were seized by officers who arrested the teenager in Southport.

Cyber crime is an issue which has no boundaries and affects people on a local, regional and global level.

Craig Jones, head of the Cyber Crime Unit at SEROCU

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