#Romanian Hacker Pleads Guilty to Selling Access to Oregon State Networks: A Cybersecurity Nightmare Unfolds

In a shocking turn of events, a Romanian hacker has pleaded guilty to selling unauthorized access to the state network of Oregon's emergency management office. Catalin Dragomir, a 45-year-old national from Constanta, Romania, was arrested in November 2024 and extradited to the United States in January 2025. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of cybercrime and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.

Dragomir gained access to the Oregon state emergency management network in June 2021 and subsequently sold admin access for $3,000 in Bitcoin, which he used to repeatedly demonstrate his control over the system. According to court documents, Dragomir provided samples of personal identifying information from the computer as part of the sale, causing significant losses for multiple US victims. The total loss is estimated to be over $250,000.

This case highlights the severity of vulnerabilities in state and local government networks, which can be exploited by hackers like Dragomir. It also underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures, including regular software updates, patching, and employee training. Furthermore, the use of cryptocurrency for illicit transactions has become increasingly common, making it challenging for law enforcement agencies to track down cybercriminals.

The investigation into Dragomir's activities was conducted by the Department of Justice (DoJ) in conjunction with other federal agencies. The Romanian national was arrested on November 14, 2024, and extradited to the United States in January 2025. He pleaded guilty to obtaining information from a protected computer and aggravated identity theft.

The sentencing hearing for Dragomir is set for May 26, 2026, with a maximum of five years for the first count and a mandatory two-year consecutive term for identity theft, pending the judge's review of sentencing guidelines and statutory factors. The case serves as a warning to individuals and organizations alike about the dangers of cybercrime and the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity.

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, it is essential to stay informed about emerging trends and vulnerabilities. Hackers like Dragomir are constantly adapting their tactics, so it is crucial for organizations to stay vigilant and proactive in protecting their networks and systems.

In conclusion, Catalin Dragomir's case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of cybercrime and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. As we move forward, it is essential to prioritize cybersecurity, stay informed about emerging threats, and work together to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

### Key Takeaways:

* Romanian hacker Catalin Dragomir pleaded guilty to selling unauthorized access to Oregon state emergency management networks. * He gained access to the network in June 2021 and sold admin access for $3,000 in Bitcoin. * The case highlights the severity of vulnerabilities in state and local government networks. * The use of cryptocurrency for illicit transactions has become increasingly common.

### Related Stories:

* How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft * The Rise of Cybercrime: A Growing Threat to Organizations

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