Two brothers from Virginia have been taken into custody by US authorities, accused of a serious cyberattack targeting databases of a federal government contractor. Muneeb and Sohaib Akhter are alleged to have conspired to destroy and tamper with sensitive government information in an act of retaliation after losing their jobs.
The Alleged Cyberattack and Data Destruction
According to an indictment unsealed on November 13, the brothers, following their termination, allegedly plotted to harm their former employer and its government clients. The US Department of Justice claims they accessed computer systems without authorisation, issued commands to lock others out, deleted critical databases, stole information, and tried to destroy evidence.
The most destructive incident occurred on 18 February, when Muneeb Akhter is accused of deleting approximately 96 databases. These contained highly sensitive records, including files related to the Freedom of Information Act and active investigative dossiers. In a telling detail, just one minute after erasing a database belonging to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Muneeb reportedly queried an AI tool for methods to clear system logs and cover his digital tracks.
Cover-Up Attempts and Stolen Data
The brothers' alleged efforts extended beyond the digital realm. Court documents reveal they discussed cleaning their home in anticipation of a potential search by law enforcement. Furthermore, their company-issued laptops were wiped clean before being returned.
The scale of the stolen data is significant. Muneeb is accused of obtaining information from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and, more alarmingly, stealing IRS data. This theft included the federal tax records of at least 450 individuals. Sohaib faces a charge for trafficking a password that could provide access to a government computer system.
Severe Charges and Potential Sentences
The charges against the brothers are grave and carry substantial prison time. Muneeb Akhter has been indicted on counts of conspiracy to commit computer fraud and destroy records, two counts of computer fraud, theft of US government records, and two counts of aggravated identity theft. If convicted on all counts, he could face a maximum sentence of up to 45 years behind bars.
Sohaib Akhter is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud, destruction of records, and computer fraud related to password trafficking. He faces a potential maximum prison term of up to six years.
Commenting on the case, Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division stated, “These defendants abused their positions as federal contractors to attack government databases and steal sensitive government information. Their actions jeopardised the security of government systems and disrupted agencies’ ability to serve the American people.” He reaffirmed the department's commitment to prosecuting those who threaten the integrity of government operations.
