Noah Michael Urban, a 21-year-old from Florida, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his involvement in SIM-swapping attacks that defrauded victims of over $800,000. This case highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the critical need for enhanced security measures to protect personal information.
A 21-year-old from Palm Coast, Florida, Noah Michael Urban, has been sentenced to a decade in federal prison for his role in the notorious cybercrime group known as "Scattered Spider." Along with his prison term, he has been ordered to pay approximately $13 million in restitution to victims affected by his criminal activities.
SIM-swapping is a type of cyber fraud where an attacker tricks a mobile carrier into transferring a victim's phone number to a SIM card controlled by the attacker. This allows the attacker to intercept calls and text messages, gaining access to sensitive information such as banking credentials, personal accounts, and more.
In April 2025, Urban pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud and conspiracy. Prosecutors in Florida revealed that he conspired with others to steal over $800,000 from five victims through these SIM-swapping attacks. By diverting mobile communications, Urban and his co-conspirators were able to bypass security measures and execute unauthorized transactions.
Cybercrime is a growing threat in today's digital age, with SIM-swapping being one of the most alarming tactics employed by cybercriminals. Victims often face not only financial loss but also emotional distress, as their privacy is invaded and personal information is compromised. The repercussions of such crimes extend beyond the individual, affecting businesses and the broader community.
To protect yourself from becoming a victim of SIM-swapping, consider implementing these security measures:
The sentencing of Urban serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of cybercrime and the importance of cybersecurity awareness. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, individuals can protect themselves against such threats.
Discover the alarming connection between state-sponsored disinformation campaigns and the dark adtech industry. This article explores how malicious advertising technology enables the spread of misinformation and highlights essential strategies for safeguarding against these threats.
The DDoS botnet Aisuru, primarily fueled by compromised IoT devices, poses a significant threat to U.S. ISPs like AT&T, Comcast, and Verizon. With record-breaking traffic peaks of nearly 30 trillion bits per second, the need for enhanced security measures and collaboration among ISPs is more critical than ever to mitigate these attacks.
The emergence of polished online gambling websites has led to a surge in scams that exploit players through enticing offers and deceptive practices. This article explores the workings of these scam gambling machines and provides essential tips for safeguarding your assets in the online gaming landscape.