Major Computer Hacker Pleads Guilty
A computer hacker who infiltrated the networks of numerous major U.S. retailers including TJX Companies, BJ's Wholesale Club, OfficeMax, and Barnes & Noble, pleaded guilty Friday to multiple charges relating to hacking activity and credit card fraud. Albert Gonzalez, 28, of Miami, faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of 25 years in prison, plus hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines, the Justice Department said. His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 8. More than 40 million credit and debit card numbers were stolen from stores as a result of the hacking.
"Consumers must be able to trust that the credit and debit cards they use everyday in thousands of stores around the world are safe from unlawful access," Assistant Attorney General Lanny Breuer said in a statement. Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Michael Loucks added that in the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic growth in the transfer and storage of credit and debit card data on computer networks and it is critical that law enforcement works hard to investigate and prosecute the theft of personal identity data.
In addition to his plea agreement, Gonzalez also consented to an order of restitution for the loss suffered by his victims, and forfeiture of more than $2.7 million as well as multiple items of real estate and personal property, including a condo in Miami, a 2006 BMW 330i, a Tiffany diamond ring and Rolex watches. Included in the forfeited currency is more than $1 million in cash, which Gonzalez had buried in a container in his backyard.
Join the Discussion
The National Journal Group has the right (but not the obligation) to monitor the comments and to remove any materials it deems inappropriate.
Comments powered by Disqus