A Nigerian man living in the United Kingdom has been arrested on allegations that he hacked into systems tied to a U.S. university project and diverted more than $235,000 through fraudulent transfers. The case, announced by U.S. prosecutors, underscores both the global reach of cybercrime and the determination of authorities to pursue suspects across borders.
Story Synopsis
The suspect, identified as Farouk Adekunle Adepoju, was arrested in the UK on September 15, 2025. Prosecutors allege that between March and April 2023, he infiltrated the systems of a construction company in Western Pennsylvania that was contracted to work on a university project. By spoofing email accounts, Adepoju allegedly tricked the company into redirecting payments worth $235,266.80 into a fraudulent account he controlled.
He has been charged with six counts of wire fraud and one count of computer fraud.
Authorities’ Response
U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti described the method as “sophisticated cyber means” designed to deceive legitimate businesses. Despite Adepoju operating from abroad, Rivetti stressed that the collaboration between U.S. and international law enforcement ensured he was caught.
The FBI echoed that message. Kevin Rojek, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office, warned: “Criminals who think they can reach across the globe … need know one thing: the FBI and our partners are not going to let you get away with it.”
Legal Stakes
If convicted, Adepoju faces up to 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud, and up to five years for computer fraud. He is currently awaiting extradition to the Western District of Pennsylvania, where the charges were filed and where he will stand trial.
Why It Matters
The case highlights how easily email spoofing and social engineering tactics can be weaponized to siphon money from trusted institutions. What makes it more striking is that the attack was orchestrated remotely, showing that cybercriminals can exploit organizations from thousands of miles away.
It also underscores the FBI’s expanding cross-border partnerships in pursuing cybercrime suspects. For universities and their contractors, it is a cautionary tale about the importance of vigilance, secure payment processes, and quick responses to suspicious digital activity.
Suggested Reading
- Nigerian man charged after hacking US varsity systems to steal $235,000 — Vanguard News
- Common Email Spoofing Schemes — FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
- Extradition and Cybercrime Prosecutions — U.S. Department of Justice
