Albert Gonzalez is a former computer hacker who was convicted of masterminding one of the largest data breaches in history. He stole over 130 million credit and debit card numbers from major retailers, including TJX Companies, Heartland Payment Systems, and 7-Eleven. Gonzalez’s crimes cost businesses and insurers nearly $200 million.
In this article, we will explore how much money Gonzalez made from his hacking activities. We will also discuss how he became a hacker, the different hacks he was involved in, and his current status.
How Albert Gonzalez Became a Hacker
Gonzalez was born in Miami, Florida, in 1981. He showed an early interest in computers, and he began hacking when he was in high school. He learned how to hack by reading software manuals and experimenting with different techniques.
In 1999, Gonzalez enrolled in community college, but he dropped out after a semester. He decided to focus on his hacking activities full-time.
The TJX Hack
In 2005, Gonzalez began hacking into the computer systems of TJX Companies, a major retailer. He was able to steal over 94 million credit and debit card numbers from TJX’s systems.
The TJX hack was one of the largest data breaches in history. It cost TJX Companies over $100 million, and it also affected millions of consumers.
The Heartland Hack
In 2007, Gonzalez began hacking into the computer systems of Heartland Payment Systems, a major payment processor. He was able to steal over 130 million credit and debit card numbers from Heartland’s systems.
The Heartland hack was even larger than the TJX hack. It cost Heartland Payment Systems over $100 million, and it also affected millions of consumers.
Other Hacks
In addition to the TJX and Heartland hacks, Gonzalez was also involved in a number of other hacks. These included hacks of 7-Eleven, Hannaford Brothers, and Barnes & Noble.
Gonzalez’s total net worth from his hacking activities is estimated to be over $20 million. This includes the money he made from selling the stolen credit and debit card numbers, as well as the money he made from other criminal activities.
Conclusion
Albert Gonzalez is one of the most notorious hackers in history. His crimes cost businesses and insurers nearly $200 million, and they affected millions of consumers. Gonzalez is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence.
FAQs
How did Albert Gonzalez get caught?
Gonzalez was caught after he was arrested in a sting operation by the Secret Service. The Secret Service had been investigating Gonzalez for several years, and they were able to track him down after he made a number of mistakes.
What is Albert Gonzalez doing now?
Gonzalez is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence in the United States Penitentiary, Atlanta. He is scheduled to be released in 2030.
What can we learn from Albert Gonzalez’s story?
Albert Gonzalez’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of cybercrime. It shows how hackers can steal millions of dollars worth of data, and how they can affect millions of people. It is also a reminder that cybercrime is a serious crime, and that those who commit it will be caught and punished.
