On July 16, 2023, the cybersecurity world mourned the loss of Kevin Mitnick, an infamous computer hacker, who passed away at the age of 59.

Who was Kevin Mitnick?

Kevin Mitnick was an infamous American computer hacker, security consultant, and author. He gained notoriety in the 1980s and 1990s for his hacking exploits, which led to him being placed on the FBI’s most wanted list. Mitnick was known for gaining unauthorized access to various computer systems, copying software illegally, and intercepting computer passwords and private emails.

Cause of Death

On July 16, 2023, the cybersecurity world mourned the loss of Kevin Mitnick, an infamous computer hacker, who passed away after bravely battling pancreatic cancer for over a year.

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Age

At the time of his death, Kevin Mitnick was 59 years old.

Net Worth

Throughout his life, Mitnick gained notoriety for his hacking exploits, landing him on the FBI’s most wanted list and leading to his arrest and imprisonment. His net worth remained undisclosed as he shifted his focus to cybersecurity consulting, public speaking, and authoring books about his adventures. Web portals range his net worth from $5 million to $20 million.

Childhood

Born on August 6, 1963, in Van Nuys, California, Mitnick began his hacking journey at the tender age of 12. He displayed an early fascination with technology, earning the nickname “Condor” after the movie “Three Days of the Condor.” His hacking exploits gained momentum, and by the age of 16, he had already broken into a computer network belonging to Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC).

Career

Mitnick’s hacking journey took him on a roller-coaster ride of triumphs and controversies. He gained unauthorized access to various computer systems, leading to his first conviction in 1988. He spent time in prison, and even after his release, he continued his hacking activities, living as a fugitive for two and a half years.

Eventually, the FBI arrested him in 1995. After his release, Mitnick channeled his skills into cybersecurity consulting, public speaking, and authoring several books about his experiences.

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Books

Kevin Mitnick co-authored four books, each shedding light on the world of hacking and cybersecurity. Some of his notable works include “The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element of Security,” “The Art of Intrusion: The Real Stories Behind the Exploits of Hackers, Intruders & Deceivers,” and his autobiography, “Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World’s Most Wanted Hacker.” These books offer insight into the methods of hackers and the challenges of securing computer networks.

Kevin Mitnick’s life was a tale of intrigue, adventure, and controversy. He left an indelible mark on the world of hacking and cybersecurity, and his legacy will continue to be remembered and debated for years to come.

As the cybersecurity community mourns his passing, his contributions to the field will undoubtedly inspire future generations of hackers and cybersecurity experts.