Modern Wisdom #503 - Brett Johnson - The United States' Most Wanted Hacker
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Jul 23, 2022 
Brett Johnson, known as 'The Original Internet Godfather', shares his wild journey from notorious hacker to cybersecurity expert. He recounts thrilling tales of evading law enforcement, including his prison escape and life on the run. The discussion delves into major cyber events, like the SolarWinds hack, and dissects the complexities of online communities and their implications. Brett also reflects on his transformation and the challenges of reintegration into society, offering valuable insights on digital protection and the evolution of cybercrime.
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Brett Johnson's Criminal History
- Brett Johnson, called the "Original Internet Godfather", built Shadow Crew, the first organized cybercrime community.
- He committed crimes from inside the Secret Service offices, escaped prison, and went to Disneyland while defrauding millions.
Life on the Most Wanted List
- Being on the U.S. Most Wanted list is terrifying, leading to constant fear and paranoia.
- It isolates individuals, forcing them to constantly watch their back and distrust everyone.
Early Criminal Career
- Brett Johnson's criminal life began at 10 with shoplifting, influenced by his mother.
- He later transitioned to online scams, starting with selling a fake Beanie Baby on eBay.