Notorious hacker Kevin Mitnick, renowned for his cyber exploits, turns 59 but unfortunately passes away. Having transformed his life, Mitnick is now recognized as an author and security consultant.
## Kevin Mitnick: From Infamous Hacker to Renowned Cybersecurity Expert
Kevin Mitnick, born in Los Angeles in 1964, made headlines in the 1980s as one of the most wanted hackers in the world. By his early twenties, he had already broken into major computer systems, including Digital Equipment Corporation's Ark, used for developing their RSTS/E operating system software.
Mitnick's hacking career came to a halt in 1995 when he was arrested after a two-and-a-half-year manhunt led by cybercrime expert Tsutomu Shimomura. He was charged with unauthorized access to computer systems and theft of proprietary software. Mitnick was sentenced to five years in prison, with over four years served pre-trial, including eight months in solitary confinement.
Following his release in 2000, Mitnick transitioned into a career as a security consultant. He used his expertise to help organisations protect themselves against cyber threats. In this new role, Mitnick became a respected expert in computer security.
Mitnick's contributions to the field of cybersecurity extended beyond consulting. He became an author, writing several books about hacking, including "The Art of Deception", "Ghost in the Wires", and "The Art of Intrusion". These books offer insights into the ways hackers operate and provide valuable advice on how to protect against cyber threats.
Mitnick's books were bestsellers and have been translated into over 20 languages. "Ghost in the Wires", his memoir detailing his experiences as a hacker, was particularly well-received.
In addition to his writing, Mitnick was a frequent speaker at security conferences. He shared his expertise with audiences worldwide, highlighting the importance of securing systems against social engineering attacks and advising on how to protect against cyber threats.
Despite his controversial past, Mitnick is recognised as one of the most legendary figures in hacking history. He transformed his skills into a career that helps organisations enhance their cybersecurity. His speaking engagements and books provide valuable insights into both the threats and solutions in cybersecurity.
Mitnick's death was announced by his friend and business partner, Ed Skoudis, in 2021. He died of natural causes.
References:
1. [Kevin Mitnick](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Mitnick) - Wikipedia. 2. [Kevin Mitnick](https://www.biography.com/scientists/kevin-mitnick) - Biography.com. 3. [Kevin Mitnick](https://www.cybersecuritydive.com/news/kevin-mitnick-dead-at-57-famed-hacker-turned-security-expert-dies-of-natural-causes/628339/) - Cybersecurity Dive. 4. [Kevin Mitnick's Sentencing](https://www.nytimes.com/1999/08/11/us/kevin-mitnick-sentenced-to-5-years-in-prison-for-hacking-case.html) - The New York Times.
In the transformative journey of Kevin Mitnick, the renowned hacker, he leveraged his cybersecurity skills to aid organizations in protecting their systems, becoming a respected expert in computer security. His expertise transcended into books, such as "The Art of Deception", "Ghost in the Wires", and "The Art of Intrusion", offering profound insights into cyber threats and ways to combat them using technology.
