Teen Hackers Accused of Leaking Preschoolers’ Photos on Dark Web and Demanding Ransom

Two 17-year-olds have been arrested for allegedly hacking into an international preschool chain’s computer systems, stealing sensitive information, and posting photos of young students online before demanding ransom payments from their families.

Data from More Than 8,000 Students Stolen In Hertfordshire, England

The hackers, calling themselves “Radiant,” reportedly breached systems belonging to Kido, a global network of preschools and nurseries with locations in the United States, United Kingdom, India, and China. The stolen data included photos and personal information from more than 8,000 students. The images and personal details for at least 20 children were uploaded to the dark web in late September, along with private information from dozens of employees.

Hackers Demand $800,000 in Bitcoin

After publishing the data, the group allegedly contacted Kido, demanding more than $800,000 in Bitcoin to delete the files and remove the published profiles. Some parents of the affected children also received direct messages from the hackers urging them to help pay the ransom.

Cybersecurity expert Ciaran Martin from the U.K.’s National Cyber Security Center said the hackers appeared to be “trying to stoke up fear,” adding that the likelihood of physical harm to the children was “extremely low.”

Hackers Apologize After Public Outrage

Kido had refused to pay the ransom. Following intense public backlash, the hackers appeared to backtrack—blurring the children’s photos and eventually removing the data altogether. “All child data is now being deleted,” the group reportedly told the outlet. “We are sorry for hurting kids.”

The Metropolitan Police announced the arrests of two 17-year-old suspects on October 7. Authorities have not released their names or additional details about the investigation.

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