Kuwait apprehends members of international gang after cyberattacks

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has announced the arrest of an international cybercrime ring composed of Chinese nationals, suspected of launching large-scale cyberattacks on telecommunications base stations and financial institutions within Kuwait. This action aims to safeguard national security and protect critical infrastructure from harm.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Interior on the X platform on Thursday, several telecommunications companies and banks reported cyberattacks on their networks, with criminals attempting to steal customer information and funds, prompting an immediate investigation by the cybercrime combating department. These reports spurred authorities to take swift action in response to the growing cybersecurity threat.

In the Farwaniya area of Kuwait City, police arrested a Chinese driver and found multiple electronic devices on his person. Subsequently, police discovered more high-tech tools at his residence. The suspect confessed to being part of a larger fraud network, and other individuals involved have been identified and arrested.

These criminal suspects are also accused of using forged documents to falsify identities. The Ministry of Interior emphasized its commitment to combating cybercrime, protecting national institutions from attacks, and is taking action to strengthen cybersecurity to protect citizens' data and financial assets. Maintaining cybersecurity has become a top priority for the Kuwaiti government.

In September of this year, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health suffered a cyberattack that caused the systems of several hospitals in the country to go offline. The cyberattack also affected the Ministry of Health's website and healthcare applications. This incident highlighted the cybersecurity challenges facing Kuwait and prompted the government to strengthen its cyber defense capabilities.