Lecture Notes: Brett Johnson on Cyber Crime and Redemption

Introduction

• Discussion with Brett Johnson, former cyber criminal.
• Johnson built Shadow Crew, first organized cyber crime community, precursor to today's darknet.
• Known as the original internet godfather by the U.S. Secret Service.
• Placed on U.S. Most Wanted list in 2006, convicted of 39 felonies.
• Escaped from prison, later served time, now helps fight cyber crime.

Early Life and Criminal Beginnings

• First exposure to crime at age 10 in Eastern Kentucky.
• Mother was deeply involved in fraud; father neglected and emotionally abused.
• Early experiences with stealing food (e.g., shoplifting at Kmart).
• Parents’ criminality ingrained a mindset of survival and manipulation.

Development of Shadow Crew

• Transition from petty theft to organized cyber crime.
• 2002-2003: Entered into cyber crime by selling fake identification and counterfeit items.
• Formation of Shadow Crew:
  • Collaboration with other cyber criminals to share knowledge and techniques.
  • Created a community for establishing trust among criminals.

Major Criminal Activities

• Identity Theft: Johnson created the first tax return identity theft scheme, stealing large amounts of money from the IRS.
• ATM Fraud: Stole significant sums from ATMs using counterfeit cashier’s checks.
• Violence in Cyber Crime: Rise of violence as a tool among criminals, including torture and intimidation.
• Example: The case of "Script" who tortured a debtor to send a message.

Arrest and Prison Experience

• 2006: Placed on the U.S. Most Wanted list after a series of high-profile crimes.
• Described the harsh realities of prison life, including solitary confinement.
• Important Lessons: Self-reflection, responsibility, and the impact of crime on victims.
• Acknowledged the emotional toll of lying and manipulating others.

Redemption and New Path

• Post-Prison: Struggled to find legitimate work after release.
• Help from Family and Friends: Mentions his sister’s support and the role of a mentor from law enforcement.
• Transitioned into speaking and consulting on cyber crime, emphasizing the importance of preventing it.

Advice on Cyber Crime and Human Connection

• Understanding Cyber Crime: Emphasized that most attacks utilize known exploits and human errors.
• Importance of community and trust in combating cyber crime.
• Encouraged young people to help others and avoid the pitfalls of crime.

Reflection on Life and Hope for the Future

• Meaning of life: Helping others rather than hurting them.
• Importance of recognizing and acting upon the humanity in everyone.
• Hope lies in the collective ability of society to come together against injustices.

Future Plans

• Launching the Brett Johnson Show: Aimed at discussing cyber crime, sharing knowledge, and promoting positive change.
• Focus on connecting with individuals, sharing stories of redemption, and providing valuable insights into the dark web and cyber security.