Contractors Charged with Cyber Espionage: Accused of Erasing 96 Government Databases

Virginia Brothers Charged with Conspiring to Steal Sensitive Government Information

Two brothers from Virginia, Muneeb and Sohaib Akhter, have been charged by U.S. prosecutors for allegedly plotting to steal confidential data and destroy government databases. The brothers, aged 34, were previously convicted in 2015 for unauthorized access to U.S. State Department systems and theft of personal information.

Following their release, the Akhter brothers were rehired as government contractors but were recently indicted on charges of computer fraud, destruction of records, identity theft, and theft of government information. The Justice Department stated that the brothers sought to harm their former employer and government clients by unauthorized access, data deletion, and evidence destruction.

Court documents reveal that Muneeb Akhter deleted numerous government databases in 2025, including sensitive investigative documents. He also allegedly sought guidance from an artificial intelligence tool to cover his tracks after deleting a Department of Homeland Security database.

The brothers prevented modifications to targeted databases before deletion and wiped incriminating evidence, indicating premeditated actions. Muneeb Akhter is accused of stealing IRS and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission information post-termination, potentially impacting hundreds of individuals.

Muneeb Akhter faces charges of conspiracy to commit computer fraud, theft of U.S. government records, and aggravated identity theft. His brother, Sohaib, is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud and faces a maximum penalty of six years if convicted.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti emphasized that the brothers’ actions compromised government security and disrupted essential services. The case highlights the risks posed by insider threats and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.

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