Disgruntled IT worker jailed for cyber attack on former workplace in Huddersfield
The 31 year old caused around £200,000 in damage to the company
A disgruntled IT worker has been jailed for more than seven months after carrying out a cyber attack on his former employer.
31 year old Mohammed Umar Taj, of Hyrst Garth in Batley, caused around £200,000 worth of damage in lost business and reputational harm after changing passwords to disrupt the company.
It happened after he was suspended from work in July 2022.
He recorded his activities and even discussed the attack over the, which police were later able to use as evidence.
At Leeds Crown Court the 31 ear old admitted committing unauthorised acts with intent to impair the operation of or hindering access to a computer.
Detective Sergeant Lindsey Brants of West Yorkshire Police’s Cyber Crime Team said: “Taj set out to get revenge on his employer following his suspension from work. He did so by targeting their IT system, which he had privileged access to.
“By doing this he created a ripple effect of disruption far beyond the shores of the UK.
“Protecting your network prevents data loss and costly cyber attacks. It also maintains trust with clients and stakeholders. We urge all businesses to look at their network security.”