Briton accused of hacking U.S. government computers

A Briton accused of mounting the largest ever hack of United States government computer networks, including Army, Air Force, Navy and NASA systems, expects to learn Wednesday if he is to be extradited to stand trial.

Photo: Briton accused of hacking U.S. government computers

Gary McKinnon, 40, of London, has been indicted in New Jersey and northern Virginia on charges of illegally accessing 97 computers, causing US$700,000 ( Ђ 588,000) in damage.

The alleged hacker, who has claimed he was searching for suppressed evidence of UFOs,  was arrested in 2002 and has fought against extradition, claiming he could face prosecution under U.S. anti-terror laws, despite assurances he will not.

McKinnon is accused of hacking into U.S. government computers in 14 states, including two at the Pentagon, between February 2001 and March 2002, reports the AP.

I.L.