The failed attempt was made on New Year's Eve just days after the appeal was launched to help the victims of the Asian disaster. Police were alerted to the attack by BT, which hosts the secure payment page of the website. The attack was blocked and an investigation was launched by the Met Police's Computer Crime Unit.
Police arrested the East London man yesterday (January 20) at address in the Bishopgate area of London. He was taken to Belgravia police station and questioned in connection with alleged offences under the Computer Misuse Act. He is currently on bail and due to return in early February. Police are examining computer equipment seized during a search.
A spokesman for the Met Police said systems in place to secure the website meant the attack was quickly blocked and continues to be safe.