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How Two Kids Hacked CIA and Leaked Everything?

The Teenage Hackers Who Shook the CIA

By Abira SahiPublished about a year ago 1 min read

*The Teenage Hackers Who Shook the CIA*

In 2015, two teenage hackers, known by their internet names "Default" and "Cracker," made headlines for leaking thousands of classified documents from the CIA and FBI. Their actions exposed the US government's secret operations in the Middle East, Afghanistan, and South America, and revealed technologies capable of monitoring individuals worldwide.

*The Masterminds Behind the Hack*

Default, a 14-year-old from Virginia, began exploring hacking after playing Counter Strike. He joined Anonymous and later Anon Sec, honing his skills and adopting a pro-justice stance. Cracker, a 15-year-old from London, shared similar motivations.

*The Leaks and Their Impact*

The duo's group, Crackers with Attitude, hacked Intelligence Director James Clapper's email and social media. They then targeted CIA Head John Brennan, hacking his data and making a prank call. The leaked documents, published on WikiLeaks, revealed CIA involvement in foreign conflicts and human rights violations.

*Consequences and Controversy*

The CIA suffered $1.5 million in damages, and secret agents went underground. Default and Cracker were eventually caught after Cracker's careless revelation to friends led to his arrest. Default received a five-year prison sentence and a $5,000 fine, while Cracker faced a two-year sentence due to his age and UK residence.

*The Ethics of Whistleblowing*

This case raises questions about leaking classified information and government accountability. Edward Snowden's quote resonates: "One exposing a crime is treated as committing a crime." Were these teenagers heroes or criminals? Share your thoughts.

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