Two Arrested in U.S. Computer Worm Probe

[RamboLiberal]

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/news/archive/2005/08/26/national/w093531D24.DTL

Authorities in Morocco and Turkey have arrested two people believed to be responsible for unleashing a computer worm that infected networks at U.S. companies and government agencies earlier this month, the FBI said Friday.

Farid Essebar, 18, was arrested in Morocco, while Atilla Ekici, 21, was arrested in Turkey on Thursday, the FBI said. They will be prosecuted in those countries, the FBI said.

The Zotob worm and its variations targeted computers that run Microsoft Corp. operating systems, with Windows 2000 users most seriously affected.

The worm disrupted computer operations in mid-August at several large news organizations, including The Associated Press, ABC, CNN, and The New York Times, such companies as heavy-equipment maker Caterpillar Inc. and the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement bureau.

Microsoft played a role in locating the suspects, the FBI said.

[PurityOfEssence]

1. Hang 'em

Those who create and unleash viruses and worms are worse than horse thieves in the old west. They ruin peoples' livelihoods and reputations, and they cause untold frustration and disruption.

It's the equivalent of yelling "fire" in a crowded stadium.

[redwitch]

2. um. it's Turkey, they more than likely will.

nt

[Art_from_Ark]

3. So they have already been found guilty?

Both of these people were arrested in 3rd World nations that aren't exactly known for their meticulous detective methods and strict adherence to "innocent until proven guilty".