Honeytrap Scandal: UK Lawmakers Targeted in Cyber Blackmail
Oliver Steadman, 28, from North London, is charged with blackmail and improper use of electronic communications, targeting British lawmakers with 'honeytrap' messages. The scandal highlights vulnerability to cyberattacks, amid concerns of Chinese espionage. Senior Conservative Party member William Wragg was compromised after sharing personal details online.
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- United Kingdom
A 28-year-old man from North London has been charged with blackmail and related offences after British lawmakers were subjected to 'honeytrap' messages. Oliver Steadman allegedly sent unsolicited indecent WhatsApp images to five political figures between October 2023 and April 2024.
This incident has heightened concerns of cyberattacks and espionage among British lawmakers, intensified by alerts concerning Chinese spy operations targeting officials in politics, defence, and business. William Wragg, a senior Conservative Party member, admitted to compromising fellow lawmakers by sharing their personal details after sending intimate photos online.
The police have confirmed that Steadman faces charges including one count of blackmail and five counts related to misuse of a public electronic communications network. Steadman is scheduled to appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court on November 3.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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