Conor Brian Fitzpatrick, the administrator of the notorious BreachForums hacking forum, has been handed a 20-year supervised release.
In a pivotal turn of events, Fitzpatrick, in July, entered a guilty plea to a three-count criminal information. The charges included conspiracy to commit access device fraud, solicitation for offering access devices, and possession of child pornography.
BreachForums: Cybercrime Marketplace Unveiled
BreachForums served as a clandestine cybercrime marketplace where members engaged in the illicit trade of compromised data and contraband items. The spectrum of traded goods encompassed stolen access devices, cybercrime tools, compromised databases, and services facilitating unauthorized access to targeted systems.
- Access Devices
- Cybercrime Tools
- Compromised Databases
- Unauthorized Access Services
Arrest of Pompompurin and Ongoing Investigation
In March 2023, U.S. law enforcement apprehended Pompompurin, a key figure in BreachForums. Extensive operations were conducted, including hours spent inside and outside the suspect’s residence, resulting in the seizure of bags of evidence.
Pompompurin faces charges related to solicitation for selling unauthorized access devices. Fitzpatrick, released on a $300,000 bond, signed by his parents, awaits further legal proceedings.
Today the United States government recommended to the courts that Conor Fitzpatrick, the previous administrator of BreachedForum, receive 15 years in prison. pic.twitter.com/HP5fl4tbBe
— vx-underground (@vxunderground) January 17, 2024
BreachForums’ Genesis Post Operation TOURNIQUET
The BreachForums hacking forum emerged in 2022 following the seizure of RaidForums by law enforcement during Operation TOURNIQUET. Pompompurin consistently maintained non-affiliation with RaidForums in any capacity.
In a groundbreaking ruling, a federal judge has mandated distinctive conditions for the initial two years of Conor Brian Fitzpatrick’s 20-year sentence. The sentencing details, disclosed by CyberScoop on Friday, unveil a combination of home confinement and stringent monitoring measures.
Home Confinement with Internet Restrictions
During the first year of home confinement, Fitzpatrick is expressly prohibited from accessing the internet. Additionally, he is obligated to register with state sex offender registries, adding a layer of accountability to the confinement period.
Supervised Release Conditions
The sentencing document outlines the terms of Fitzpatrick’s supervised release, emphasizing a meticulous approach:
- Home Arrest with GPS Location Monitoring
- Pre-Approved Outings with Probation Officer Permission
- Therapy Sessions
- Meetings with Probation Officer
- Medical Appointments
- Religious Observances
- Compliance with the Computer Monitoring Program
- Installation of Monitoring Software on Any Used Computer
The sentence explicitly directs Fitzpatrick to allow the probation officer to install computer monitoring software on any device he uses, ensuring comprehensive oversight of his digital activities.
Restitution for Victims
Fitzpatrick is also required to make restitution for the losses suffered by the victims. However, the specific amount of restitution remains pending, awaiting a subsequent decision by the court.
