A 32-year-old paraplegic man was sentenced to six years in prison for breaking into more than 100 computers for financial information and nude photos. Luis Mijangos was a freelance computer consultant by day, but led a double life creating malware obfuscated from antimalware software using open-source cryptor software, reports Computerworld. He then used social engineering techniques to trick his victims into installing the malware, by disguising the files as songs on peer-to-peer networks or as videos through instant messaging. 

In this manner, Mijangos gained full control of the files on his victim's computers, including the webcam and microphone. Using compromising photos taken using the webcam, or found on the commandeered computers, he then attempted to "sextort" his way into gaining more intimate images or videos by threatening to release the photos onto the Internet. 

According to an LA Times report, FBI computer forensics experts have determined that Mijangos has infected "more than 100 computers that were used by approximately 230 individuals, at least 44 of whom were juveniles." Mijangos used the same techniques to steal financial information that earned him as much as $3,000 per day.

In a DOJ press release, Steven M. Martinez, assistant director in charge of the FBI's L.A. field office warned about a rise in similar cases "based on the exploitation of emerging technology by criminals." 

While individuals will do well not to send nude or compromising photographs of themselves via the Internet, the ease with which Mijangos was able to break into computers and overcome antimalware defenses should also serve as a warning to businesses. Investing in IT security is a necessity in the current security landscape, not a luxury. And simply deploying antivirus software is no longer a guarantee of protection against a determined attacker.

For more on this story:
- check out this article at Computerworld
- check out this article at Forbes
- check out this article at LA Times Blogs

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