Thalha Jubair, 19, and Owen Flowers, 18, were snared in a major cyber crime probe by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and City of London Police last September. The duo stands accused of pulling off a massive cyber attack that slapped Transport for London (TfL) with a staggering £39 million loss.
Cyber Crime Sends TfL Into Crisis
At Westminster Magistrates’ Court, prosecutors revealed how the hack not only drained millions but also hit livelihoods hard — targeting those reliant on TfL licences. Court documents branded the incident a “significant risk” to the UK economy and Londoners’ daily lives.
Serious Charges and Shocking Details
- Both charged with conspiring to commit unauthorised acts against TfL.
- Flowers from Walsall faces extra allegations linked to cyber attacks on US healthcare giants SSM Health Care Corporation and Sutter Health.
- Jubair, hailing from Tower Hamlets, faces an additional charge for refusing to hand over device PINs and passwords under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA).
Both denied all charges during their Southwark Crown Court appearance last Friday.
Scattered Spider Hackers Fingered in TfL Attack
The NCA linked the cyber strike to the notorious hacking gang Scattered Spider. This group has previously hit big names like Jaguar Land Rover and retail giants Marks and Spencer.
TfL confirmed the breach on September 1 last year, admitting hackers stole customer details including names, contact info, and Oyster card refund bank data.
Judge Christopher Hehir has set a trial date for June 8. The pair will return to Southwark Crown Court on February 13 for a pre-trial review.
