Hacker Known As 'Vigilance' Charged for Cyberattacks On Minnesota State Government Databases

PRESS RELEASE

United States Attorney Gregory G. Brooker today announced a five-count indictment charging CAMERON THOMAS CROWLEY, a/k/a “Vigilance,” 19, with intentional access to a protected computer, intentional damage to a protected computer, and aggravated identity theft. CROWLEY made his initial appearance earlier this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Becky R. Thorson in Saint Paul, Minnesota. CROWLEY will remain in federal custody pending his detention hearing.

According to the indictment, between May 28, 2017 and June 17, 2017, CROWLEY intentionally gained unauthorized access to protected computer servers owned by the State of Minnesota and other entities. CROWLEY also caused the transmission of programs, code, and commands to the protected computer servers, causing damages and a loss to the State of Minnesota of more than $5,000. The indictment also charges CROWLEY with one count of aggravated identity theft.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katharine T. Buzicky is prosecuting the case.

Defendant Information:                                                                                                                     

CAMERON THOMAS CROWLEY, a/k/a “Vigilance,” 19

Lino Lakes, Minn.

Charges: