ShinyHunters website goes offline after FBI deadline expires

ShinyHunters, known for targeting major corporations, told news organizations on September 22 that it had stolen data on "almost ALL FBI Agents, and individuals who filed an application with the FBI for a job." A Reuters analysis of a sample of the data revealed it contained extensive personally identifiable information, sensitive job role information, and psychiatric and medical information.

The hackers stated they targeted the FBI due to a May 2026 FBI advisory that they felt misrepresented their prior actions, demanding the FBI "correct or simply REMOVE" it. The advisory remained online. ShinyHunters later indicated it had no intention of publishing the stolen data, having accomplished its goals.

The FBI confirmed on September 23 that it was "actively and aggressively investigating" the breach. Assistant Director Brett Leatherman urged the hackers on September 29 to contact the FBI. Dutch police announced this week the arrest of a Dutch man in connection with an investigation into ShinyHunters, a claim the group denied, calling the police "incompetent."

Reuters could not determine why the site was offline, and ShinyHunters could not be reached for comment.