Israeli Private Investigator Faces Extradition Charges in Hacking for Hire Case

Amit Forlit, an Israeli private investigator, appeared in a London court facing extradition to the U.S. for alleged involvement in a 'hacking for hire' scheme. Accused of wire fraud and computer hacking, Forlit denies any wrongdoing. The full hearing is scheduled for January, with significant legal implications.

Amit Forlit, an Israeli private investigator wanted by the United States over allegations of a 'hacking for hire' campaign, appeared in a London court on Friday to contest his extradition case, scheduled for a full hearing in January.

Forlit, facing charges of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and computer hacking, was arrested at Heathrow Airport in April while attempting to fly to Israel. After an initial extradition attempt was dismissed on a technicality, he was rearrested and released on bail after surrendering his passport and posting a security of 200,000 pounds ($257,370).

U.S. authorities, represented by lawyer Adam Payter, allege that Forlit's hacking activities spanned from 2012 to 2019, targeting numerous victims to access confidential information. Forlit has denied all accusations, claiming he neither commissioned nor paid for hacking services.

(With inputs from agencies.)