August 28, 2009
-
News: Notorious Hacker Pleads Guilty
The notorious computer hacker and mastermind behind the biggest debit and credit card as well as identity theft cases in history, pleaded guilty and remains in prison. In a plea deal, Albert Gonzalez of Miami, Florida, pleaded guilty to the theft of over 170 million debit and credit card numbers pertaining to federal charges in Boston and New York. The deal does not cover charges Gonzalez continues to face for credit card theft in the New Jersey court. His guilty plea covers 19 counts including conspiracy, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Gonzalez faces up to 25 years in federal prison versus over 100 years had he not made the deal.
The massive credit card theft scam targeted major companies including TJ Maxx, Barnes and Noble, Office Max, and Sports Authority. Other targets include 7-Eleven Convenience Stores and Hannaford Brothers Grocery Store chain which Gonzalez has yet to face in New Jersey. In addition to his prison terms, the notorious thief and hacker must surrender his computers, condo, auto, and $1.1 million in cash which he acquired through the illegal use of the stolen debit and credit card. Additionally, his girlfriend, friends, and father must also return the jewelry and Rolex watches Gonzalez gave to them. At the end of his prison term, Gonzalez will not be off the hook. The agreement also provides for restrictions of Gonzalez's use of computers and Internet usage for five years after his release from prison.
Gonzalez, now only 29 years old began his illustrious hacking career as a teenager when he used his high school's library computer to hack into an Indian Government Website. The FBI refrained from charging him with any crime. Gonzalez was again arrested in 2003 for another hacking incident but again not charged with any crime because authorities said he became an informant. The experience didn't deter him from continuing his illegal actions as he continued his career by masterminding the theft of over 100 million debit and credit card numbers. I do believe there is a bigger lesson to be learned here.