Australian contractor accused of crypto funded cyber exploit leaks

An Australian defence contractor has been accused of secretly selling sensitive cyber exploit tools in exchange for cryptocurrency payments, raising national security concerns across the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. Prosecutors allege the accused, Peter Williams, transferred protected cyber capabilities to a Russian exploit broker while using cryptocurrency to conceal payments. Authorities say the case highlights how digital assets are increasingly being used to facilitate espionage and covert cyber operations. The alleged activity exposed critical cyber tools and resulted in significant financial losses, while also raising concerns about insider threats within defence and intelligence networks. Exploit sales Peter Williams, a former Australian Air Force staffer and defence contractor who lived in the US, allegedly sold eight protected cyber exploit components to…