14 DAY TRIAL // A programmer from Long Island, New York, was arrested last week and charged with hacking into the systems of a company that manufactures high-voltage power supplies. The suspect, Michael Meneses, worked for the firm in question until January 2012.
The complaint reveals that Meneses worked for the company as a software programmer and system manager. He was responsible for making sure that the software used by the company for the manufacturing business was running efficiently. This gave him high-level access to the organization’s systems.
In late December 2011, he resigned from the company, being displeased with the fact that he had been passed over for promotions.
Once his access to the network was terminated, Meneses is said to have launched a three-week cyber campaign against the company.
He sabotaged the company’s operations by stealing the security credentials of a former co-worker with the aid of a program designed to capture usernames and passwords. With the credentials in hand, he used a VPN service from his home and from a hotel to breach the manufacturer's networks.
He not only used a former colleague’s email account to discourage applicants from taking his position, but he also altered the business calendar by one month, disrupting the firm’s financial and production operations.
“As the complaint alleges, the defendant engaged in a 21st Century campaign of cyber-vandalism and high-tech revenge, hacking into the computer network of his former employer to disrupt its operations, thereby causing tens of thousands of dollars in damage,” said United States Attorney Loretta E. Lynch.
“We will hold accountable any individual who victimizes others by exploiting computer network vulnerabilities,” Lynch added.
The damage caused by Meneses has been evaluated at $90,000 (€68,000). If found guilty, he could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.
“Bent on revenge, the defendant exploited his access and his technical know-how to sabotage his former employer. As alleged, he caused significant disruption and monetary damage. The FBI is committed to vigorous enforcement of laws governing computer intrusions,” commented FBI Assistant Director in Charge George C. Venizelos.