Xbox and Playstation Hack Update: UK Teen Linked to Christmas Attacks

UK cybercrime sleuths arrested an 18-year on Friday in connection with the hacks that brought down Sony Playstation and Xbox networks during last Christmas.

According to NBC News, the man was arrested near Liverpool on charges including unauthorised access to computer material and knowingly providing false information to law enforcement agencies. While details of charges and how the teenager is connected with Lizard Squad, the group that claimed responsibility for hacks, were not immediately known, officials said the details would soon emerge.

Playstation and Xbox networks were down through the holiday season due to the denial service attacks allegedly carried out by Lizard Squad. US's FBI and UK police are said to be collaborating on the investigation, which led to Friday's arrest.

BBC quoted one of the UK's law enforcement officers Craig Jones saying that they would continue to work with FBI. Though he did not elaborate on the charges, he mentioned 'swatting' was one of the charges of teenager's arrest. Swatting is an offence in the US where law enforcement agencies receive hoax calls and dispatch of swat teams or other tactical units.

Following the hack last month, Sony and Microsoft took nearly a week to restore services. Additionally, Sony introduced a compensatory offer of service extension and discounts for its Playstation users.