Vietnamese Hacker Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Masterminding International Identity Theft and Hacking Scheme
Justice Department Announces Significant Conviction in Viet Nam
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on July 14, 2015, the sentencing of a Vietnamese national for orchestrating a massive international hacking and identity theft scheme.
Key Points
- Nguyen Huynh Duc, 31, sentenced to 13 years in prison
- Convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and access device fraud
- Scheme netted millions of dollars in illicit gains, affected hundreds of victims
- Investigation involved FBI, US Secret Service, and Viet Nam’s Ministry of Public Security
Hacker’s Activities
Nguyen Huynh Duc, formerly of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, was sentenced to 13 years in prison for masterminding a large-scale international hacking and identity theft scheme, according to the DOJ’s press release. Duc’s activities involved:
- Breaking into U.S. computer systems
- Stealing personal information
- Using that data to commit financial crimes
Impact on Victims
The hacking scheme affected several hundred victims across the United States, causing significant emotional and financial damage. The exact value of the stolen funds is still being determined.
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation, which involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, and Viet Nam’s Ministry of Public Security, led to Duc’s arrest and subsequent conviction. authorities seized numerous computers and digital storage devices containing evidence of the scheme.
International Cybercrime Concerns
The trial and sentencing come at a time when cybercrime and identity theft are significant concerns not just within the United States but also around the globe. The Department of Justice remains committed to working with law enforcement agencies worldwide to prevent, disrupt, and prosecute similar cases.