The FBI has apprehended a British national accused of running one of the dark web's most notorious data markets, using a carefully orchestrated Bitcoin transaction as the key to unlocking the case.
Kai West, operating under the alias "IntelBroker," stands indicted for allegedly masterminding a sprawling data theft operation that caused 【$25 million】 in damages across multiple continents. Court documents reveal the 32-year-old reportedly collaborated with hacking collective CyberN***ers to infiltrate systems belonging to telecommunications firms, healthcare providers, and over 40 corporations.
——This case demonstrates our ability to track cybercriminals across borders—— stated former SEC Chair Jay Clayton during Wednesday's indictment unsealing. The operation highlights growing international cooperation in combating dark web marketplaces.
Investigators gained critical evidence when an undercover agent purchased stolen credentials for 【$250 worth of Bitcoin】. The transaction, completed in February 2025, provided three administrator-level login sets and exposed West's cryptocurrency wallet – the digital equivalent of finding fingerprints at a crime scene.
Forensic analysis of West's alleged BreachForums account showed 【158 data sale threads】, with 16 posts specifying prices totaling 【$2.467 million】. Payment records indicate the suspect also accepted Monero (XMR), the privacy-focused cryptocurrency favored by cybercriminals.
What began as routine forum activity escalated dramatically when West allegedly assumed control of BreachForums in August 2024. His elevated privileges gave access to sensitive backend data while cementing his reputation in underground circles.
The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny of data marketplaces following recent breaches affecting 【16 billion user credentials】 across major platforms. Just last month, Coinbase disclosed a separate insider data leak potentially exposing cryptocurrency holders' information.
French authorities detained West in February following an Interpol notice, with U.S. officials now pursuing extradition. The case marks a significant victory for the FBI's cyber division, which spent two years infiltrating the shadowy online community where West allegedly operated.
As digital crimes increasingly transcend borders, this prosecution establishes important precedent for international cryptocurrency investigations. The Department of Justice emphasized its commitment to "following the digital trail" regardless of where it leads.