Federal Charges Filed In New Jersey Against Alleged Hacker From Britain

NEWARK, NJ (CBS) – An alleged hacker from the United Kingdom has been charged with breaching thousands of computer systems in the U.S. and elsewhere, including the networks of federal agencies, to steal massive amounts of confidential data.

The indictment, which was filed in Newark federal court, charges 28-year-old Lauri Love of Stradishall, England with one count of accessing a U.S. department or agency computer without authorization and one count of conspiracy to do so.

According to the U.S. Attorney, an investigation revealed that Love allegedly illegally infiltrated government systems such as the U.S. Army, Environmental Protection Agency and others resulting in millions in losses.

Authorities in the United Kingdom say they arrested Love at his residence on Oct. 25, 2013 in connection with an investigation by the NCA.

Love was previously charged in New Jersey by federal complaint and was also charged in a criminal complaint in Virginia for other "intrusions."

"According to the indictment, Lauri Love and conspirators hacked into thousands of networks, including many belonging to the United States military and other government agencies," said U.S. Attorney Fishman. "As part of their alleged scheme, they stole military data and personal identifying information belonging to servicemen and women. Such conduct endangers the security of our country and is an affront to those who serve."