West Dunbartonshire man created then sold computer system capable of taking down websites

A man from West Dunbartonshire has been convicted of creating and selling a computer system with the capability of bringing down websites.

Amar Tagore was arrested following a “complex” two-year cybercrime investigation by Police Scotland.

The 21-year-old’s creation was used to attack commercial systems, taking websites offline and causing widespread disruption.

Tagore operated from Alexandria and created an online tool that he then sold to hundreds of users worldwide whom he also provided with technical support.

He pled guilty to the charges at Dumbarton Sheriff Court and is due to be sentenced at a later date.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Maclean, of Police Scotland’s Cybercrime Investigations Unit, said: “Tagore supplied a tool used by his customers to carry out Distributed Denial of Services (DDOS) attacks.

“These are often used to attack commercial systems, taking websites offline and causing widespread disruption.

“This was a challenging, thorough and technical investigation that involved the examination of thousands of items of digital forensic data.

“Officers were able to demonstrate Tagore made tens of thousands of pounds through the sale of his tool and the full extent of his global activity.

“The investigation involved domestic and international partners and reflects the worldwide nature of cybercrime investigations which does not stop at traditional borders.

“Police Scotland is committed to fighting cybercrime at all levels and to protect our community and businesses from the effects of such criminality.

“Anyone with concerns or information about cybercrime should contact Police Scotland via 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”