Israeli Police Arrest Ashkelon Hacker for Cyberattacks on Multiple Companies

Israeli police have arrested a hacker in his 40s from Ashkelon suspected of infiltrating dozens of companies across various sectors by installing malware on their computers to steal sensitive information. The cyber unit of Lahav 433 led the investigation, which began after initial signs of breaches and data theft emerged at a small number of firms. Authorities revealed the hacker acted alone, without any criminal record or known affiliations, and had not attempted to extort the companies before his arrest.

The investigation involved covert operations and complex analytical work to identify and track the suspect. Police gradually uncovered additional affected companies, expanding the scope of the inquiry until they located and apprehended the hacker early Tuesday morning. Searches were conducted at his residence and several other companies, resulting in the seizure of computer equipment.

The suspect faces multiple charges, including violations of computer laws, illegal wiretapping, privacy breaches, and fraud. Following his arrest, he was brought before the Magistrate's Court in Rishon Lezion, where his detention was extended by six days. A gag order was imposed on his name at his defense attorney's request. The cybercrime division of the State Prosecutor's Office is overseeing the case as it moves into the public phase.