Cryptocurrencies
Teen Hacker and Crew of ‘Evil Geniuses’ Accused of $24 Million Crypto Theft
- Suit says hacking ring targeted large cryptocurrency holders
- Teen allegedy led the ring from his Westchester County bedroom
Michael Terpin
Photographer: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg
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A 15-year-old hacker and his crew of “evil computer geniuses” stole nearly $24 million in cryptocurrency from an adviser to blockchain companies, according to a lawsuit filed in New York.
Michael Terpin claims his phone was hacked and his money stolen in 2018 by a ring led by Westchester County, New York, teen Ellis Pinksy as part of a “sophisticated cybercrime spree.” Terpin, the founder and chief executive officer of blockchain advisory firm Transform Group, is suing Pinsky, now 18, for $71 million under a federal racketeering law that allows for triple damages.