SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The illusion of anonymity online shattered this week as federal authorities unsealed charges against three individuals allegedly involved in the brazen July 15, 2020 hack of Twitter. The attack saw over 100 high-profile accounts – belonging to politicians, celebrities, and influencers – hijacked and used to perpetrate a massive fraud scheme.
Authorities have identified 19-year-old Mason Sheppard, aka “Chaewon,” of Bognor Regis, in the United Kingdom, as a key player. He’s been charged in a criminal complaint in the Northern District of California with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and the intentional access of a protected computer. Also charged is Nima Fazeli, aka “Rolex,” 22, of Orlando, Florida, accused of aiding and abetting the unauthorized computer access. A third defendant remains a juvenile, and their case has been referred to the State Attorney for the 13th Judicial District in Tampa, Florida.
“There is a false belief within the criminal hacker community that attacks like the Twitter hack can be perpetrated anonymously and without consequence,” declared U.S. Attorney David L. Anderson for the Northern District of California. “Today’s charging announcement demonstrates that the elation of nefarious hacking into a secure environment for fun or profit will be short-lived. Criminal conduct over the Internet may feel stealthy to the people who perpetrate it, but there is nothing stealthy about it.” Anderson warned potential future offenders: “break the law, and we will find you.”
The scheme involved taking control of verified Twitter accounts and posting fraudulent solicitations for Bitcoin, promising to double any amount sent. Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division emphasized the scope of the fraud: “The hackers allegedly compromised over 100 social media accounts and scammed both the account users and others who sent money based on their fraudulent solicitations.” The swiftness of the investigation – completed in a matter of weeks – is being hailed as a success by multiple agencies.
FBI Special Agent in Charge John L. Bennett noted the speed of the investigation, contrasting it with the often-years-long timelines of cybercrime cases. “While investigations into cyber breaches can sometimes take years, our investigators were able to bring these hackers into custody in a matter of weeks,” Bennett stated. “Regardless of how long it takes us to identify hackers, we will follow the evidence to where it leads us and ultimately hold those responsible for cyber intrusions accountable for their actions.” The IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) also played a crucial role, tracing the flow of illicit funds.
“Weeks ago, one of the world’s most prolific social media platforms came under attack,” said Kelly R. Jackson, IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office. “Various political leaders, celebrities, and influencers were virtually held hostage as their accounts were hacked. The public was confused, and everyone wanted answers.” While the investigation continues, these charges represent a significant step toward holding those responsible for this high-profile hack accountable. The case is a stark reminder that even in the digital world, there are consequences for criminal actions.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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