The government is seeking advice from the world’s most infamous computer hacker, just weeks after his release from federal prison, about keeping its own electronic networks safe from intruders.
In a bizarre twist to the federal prosecution of Kevin Mitnick, a Senate panel on Thursday asked him to explain ways hackers infiltrate sensitive computer systems, and to suggest solutions to lawmakers.
“I have gained unauthorized access to computer systems at some of the largest corporations on the planet and have successfully penetrated some of the most resilient computer systems ever developed,” Mitnick said.
Mitnick, 36, also boasted that over 20 years, he broke into all but one computer system he targeted — including a California college he victimized that eventually paid him as its consultant in an unusual arrangement he called “hire the hacker.”
Mitnick, who is prohibited from using any computer or even a cellular telephone for the next three years, was released from prison Jan. 21 after almost five years.
