One Of 11 Accused Hackers Pleads Guilty In The World's Largest Data Security Breach

Boston, MA (AHN) - Suspected hacker Damon Patrick Toey pleaded guilty on Thursday in the world's largest security data breach involving TJX Companies.

The 23-year-old Miami resident admitted to a federal court in Boston the charges of credit card fraud, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

Toey was one of 11 people accused of hacking the wireless computer networks of Miami-area retailers including TJX, BJ's Wholesale Club, OfficeMax, Boston Market, Barnes & Noble and Sports Authority.

Some 45.7 million accounts were stolen for almost two years. Hackers accessed credit card and debit card numbers.

Toey agreed to help authorities in providing information on other people involved.

Earlier, Alberto Gonzalez, the suspected leader of the hacker syndicate and a former mole in the Secret Service, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The 11 accused were charged last month, including three from the U.S., an Estonian, three Ukrainians, two Chinese, and one Belarusian. One used an alias and is still at large.