Dutch Police Arrest Alleged Leader of ShinyHunters Hacking Group in Amsterdam

What happened
Dutch police arrested a 24-year-old man, Pepijn van der Stap, suspected of leading the ShinyHunters hacking group on September 15, 2026.
The Context
- High-profile targets: ShinyHunters has been linked to data breaches affecting major organizations like Ticketmaster and Rockstar Games, impacting millions of individuals.
- Ongoing investigations: The arrest is part of a broader international effort, with the FBI involved, aiming to disrupt the group's operations and recover extorted funds.
- Previous convictions: Van der Stap had a prior conviction for data theft and extortion, raising concerns about his activities post-release from prison in late 2025.
The Number
— the estimated minimum in extortion payments collected by ShinyHunters from over 140 breaches, highlighting the significant financial impact of cybercrime on global businesses.
Takeaway
As investigations continue, further arrests may follow, signaling a tightening grip on cybercriminal networks.
Consumer tech and culture with frequent AI coverage.
"Influential tech outlet covering AI products and policy."
— A47 Editor
Suspected ShinyHunters leader arrested in the Netherlands
Dutch police arrested a 24-year-old man in Amsterdam on September 15, 2026, suspected to be a leader of the hacking group ShinyHunters, known for high-profile cyberattacks including breaches of Ticketmaster, Rockstar Games, and the FBI.
Tech news, reviews, and analysis of consumer electronics, science, art, and culture.
"The Verge is a technology-focused media outlet known for in-depth reporting, product reviews, and coverage of the intersection between technology and culture."
— A47 Editor
Suspected ShinyHunters leader arrested in the Netherlands
Dutch police arrested a 24-year-old man in Amsterdam on September 15, 2026, suspected to be a leader of the hacking group ShinyHunters, known for high-profile cyberattacks including breaches of Ticketmaster, Rockstar Games, and the FBI.
RT is a Russian state-funded network covering global events from a Russian perspective.
"RT is widely criticized for promoting pro-Kremlin narratives and is considered by many to be a state propaganda outlet."
— A47 Editor
‘Reformed hacker’ busted over links to group behind FBI breach
Dutch police have arrested a high-profile hacker linked to the group ShinyHunters, which claimed responsibility for a significant breach of FBI data. This arrest follows allegations that ShinyHunters stole sensitive information on nearly all FBI agen...
Startup news with frequent AI coverage.
"Covers launches, funding, and product updates in AI."
— A47 Editor
Dutch police arrest ShinyHunters hacker accused of planning two murders
Dutch police have arrested a hacker associated with the ShinyHunters cybercriminal gang, who allegedly had plans to orchestrate the murders of two individuals, as discovered on his laptop. This arrest highlights the serious criminal activities linked...
International coverage of politics, culture, and current affairs.
"BBC News is widely regarded as a reputable international news organization, known for its impartial tone and public service mandate."
— A47 Editor
Dutch police arrest suspected member of group that claimed FBI hack
Dutch police have arrested a 24-year-old suspect believed to be a member of a group that claimed responsibility for a recent hack of the FBI. The arrest occurred prior to the alleged cyber attack, indicating proactive measures by law enforcement to p...