Massive Computer Thefts from Data Centers in Iceland

Between December 2017 and January 2018, Iceland experienced a series of large-scale thefts involving powerful computers stolen from data centers. According to The Associated Press, around 600 computers valued at approximately $2 million were stolen in what Icelandic law enforcement has described as an unprecedented crime wave for the country.

Details of the Thefts

The first theft occurred during the night of December 5 to 6, 2017. Local media reported that the criminals stole 600 graphics cards, 100 motherboards, and 100 processors, with a total value of 20 million Icelandic krona (about $198,000). By February 2018, authorities had reported a total of four such incidents.

Investigation and Arrests

During the investigation, police detained 11 individuals, with 2 remaining in custody. Some of the suspects were identified thanks to surveillance cameras at the Advania data center, where equipment including hard drives was stolen. Authorities confirmed that user data was not compromised.

Law enforcement officials described the criminal group as highly organized. Police are attempting to track the perpetrators by monitoring unusual power surges and sudden increases in network traffic, but so far, these efforts have not yielded results.

Related Incidents

Previously, there was also a reported attack on Yuri Mayorov, the lead developer of the Prizm cryptocurrency. The attackers stole a bag containing personal belongings and documents, a laptop, two mobile phones, and $20,000 in cash. The total loss was estimated at 1.5 million rubles.