NEW YORK, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- A hacker with a legendary reputation among his peers pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to invading the New York Times information network.
Adrian Lamo, 22, became infamous for hacking into the networks of large companies then offering to help them repair the breach for free, Information Week reported.
Lamo pleaded guilty to a single hacking count in a New York federal courtroom, admitting he broke into the Times' private network in October 2001 and added his own name and contact information.
Times officials estimated Lamo's action caused losses of $30,000 to $70,000.
"I know that I crossed a line that should not be crossed and I'm genuinely remorseful," Lamo told the court.
A federal complaint filed in August accused Lamo of illegally accessing Times computers, causing $25,000 in damages to its op-ed database and racking up $300,000 in LexisNexis search fees.
Lamo faces six to 12 months in prison when he is sentenced April 8.
