Dylan, a key player in the Xbox Underground, shares thrilling tales from the world of hacking. He discusses the group's bold infiltration of Microsoft, revealing secrets about Project Durango, the Xbox One prototype. The conversation deepens with stories of dramatic heists, FBI raids, and the emotional toll of their actions. They dive into the legal battles faced by hackers and the challenges of redemption after incarceration. This captivating narrative explores the intersection of gaming culture and the underground hacking scene, filled with tension and intrigue.
The Xbox Underground hacking crew infiltrated major video game companies and stole source code and prototypes, causing internal conflicts within the group.
An 18-year-old member of the crew successfully stole Xbox One prototypes from Microsoft but was later arrested.
The members of the Xbox Underground crew faced legal consequences, grew apart, and experienced personal hardships after their hacking activities were exposed.
Deep dives
Hackers gain access to video game companies' networks
Members of the Xbox Underground hacking crew gain full access to the networks of major video game companies like Epic, Activision, EA, Bungie, Microsoft, Zombie Studios, and Steam. The focus of the crew goes beyond just the Xbox console. They begin stealing source code, driver software, spec sheets, and photos related to the development of the new Xbox, code-named 'Durango'. They sell one counterfeit Durango prototype, but the second attempt fails when the package mysteriously disappears in transit. Suspicion rises within the group as they realize there is likely an informant among them.
An infiltrator at Microsoft steals Xbox One prototype
An 18-year-old named Armon infiltrates Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Washington by cloning an employee badge. He successfully steals two Xbox One prototypes, which he later sells to members of the Xbox Underground hacking crew. Armon gets a job at a Microsoft vendor as a quality assurance tester, but is arrested when his activities are discovered. The stolen Xbox Ones are eventually returned to Microsoft.
Members of the Xbox Underground face legal consequences
Several members of the Xbox Underground hacking crew, including Nathan, David, and Dillon, are arrested and face legal consequences for their actions. Nathan and David remain in custody, while Dillon is released on probation. The crew is suspected of being tipped off to law enforcement by a member within their own ranks. The legal process is tedious and stressful for all involved.
The downfall of the Xbox Underground crew
The members of the Xbox Underground crew start to grow apart, face internal conflicts, and suffer personal consequences. Dillon's behavior becomes more reckless and he faces additional charges for unrelated scams. Nathan attempts to evade police and injures himself in the process. David cooperates with law enforcement and takes a plea deal. The once tight-knit crew is left fractured and disbanded.
The aftermath of the legal battles
Following their trial, Sonad, Nathan, and David were sentenced to prison for their involvement in hacking activities. Sonad served 18 months, while David and Nathan served slightly longer sentences. Once released, Nathan faced a challenging time, compounded by financial difficulties and strained family relationships. Nathan eventually came out as transgender, which added to the difficulties she faced during her two years in prison. Despite the hardships, she persevered and focused on rebuilding her life. Sonad, on the other hand, struggled with his probation officer, who exhibited harsh treatment and denied him the use of a computer, making it difficult for him to pursue his education. The probation officer's actions eventually pushed Sonad to a breaking point, leading to a suicide attempt. However, he survived, served his time, and successfully completed his probation.
The untimely demise of Anthony and the mystery of Austin
Anthony, one of the hackers involved in the FIFA coin-scamming operation, tragically passed away from a mix of alcohol and medication. The surviving hackers suspected that Austin, listed as a co-conspirator but never arrested or sentenced, may have bribed his way out of trouble. The unresolved case left the hacking circle bitter towards Austin, as they believed he had betrayed Anthony. Despite Anthony's death, Dillon continued his hacking activities, joining forces with another person to scam Cisco and Microsoft. However, he was eventually caught and is currently awaiting sentencing for his fraudulent activities.
