The United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, along with Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s New York Field Office, has announced charges against Kai West, also known as “IntelBroker” or “Kyle Northern.” The charges relate to a hacking scheme conducted under the alias “IntelBroker,” which allegedly resulted in over $25 million in damages.
West is accused of collaborating with an online group named CyberN[——] to steal data from various entities, including a telecommunications company and a municipal healthcare provider. The stolen data was reportedly sold online for more than $2 million. West was apprehended in France earlier this year, and the U.S. is seeking his extradition.
“The IntelBroker alias has caused millions in damages to victims around the world,” stated U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. He emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to pursuing cybercriminals globally and holding them accountable.
FBI Assistant Director Christopher G. Raia remarked on West’s alleged activities: “Kai West, an alleged serial hacker, is charged for a nefarious, years-long scheme to steal victim’s data and sell it for millions in illicit funds.” He warned that cybercriminals cannot hide behind anonymity indefinitely.
The indictment details how West allegedly led CyberN[——] in breaching computer systems and selling exfiltrated data through Forum-1 between 2023 and 2025. During this period, he purportedly offered hacked data for sale approximately 41 times and distributed it freely or for credits about 117 times.
West’s messages on Forum-1 reportedly included at least 158 threads offering stolen data from companies primarily based in the United States. Some messages indicated collaboration with another user (“CC-1”) to execute these breaches.
In addition to conspiracy charges related to computer intrusions and wire fraud, West faces potential sentences ranging up to 20 years if convicted. However, these sentences are determined by Congress and are subject to judicial discretion.
U.S. Attorney Clayton commended the efforts of international partners from France, Spain, and Britain alongside domestic agencies like the FBI and DOJ’s Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan B. Finkel will lead the prosecution from the Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit.
It should be noted that all allegations remain unproven until any legal proceedings conclude with a verdict.
