Swedish police collar hardcore hacker

Casba Richter, 26, was formally charged on Tuesday by Swedish authorities who allege he stole classified information, including details of military contracts.

The alleged hack took place from March 2002 until June 2004 from Richter's home town near Budapest. If convicted, he faces two to six years in prison.

Swedish officials claim Richter's hack displayed a great deal of competency. Stolen information saved on encrypted CD's could only be accessed with Richter's help.

The accused claimed he was highlighting faults in Sony Ericsson's systems in an effort to secure a job at the company.

Last year SC reported that IT criminals do occasionally find themselves on the right side of the law. The alleged author of the Netsky worm was hired by a German company on the back of his proficiency and display of remorse. The move backfired slightly when one company cut business ties with Securepoint, who hired the 18-year-old.

www.sonyericsson.com