Cuckoo's Egg

Cliff Stoll's dramatic firsthand account is "a computer-age detective story, instantly fascinating [and] astonishingly gripping" (Smithsonian). Before the Internet became widely known as a global tool for terrorists, one perceptive U.S. citizen recognized its ominous potential. Armed with clear evidence of computer espionage, he began a highly personal quest to expose a hidden network of spies that threatened national security. But would the authorities back him up?

Stoll, an astronomer turned systems manager at Lawrence Berkeley Lab, was alerted to the presence of an unauthorized user on his system by a mere 75-cent accounting error. The hacker's code name was "Hunter"—a mysterious invader who managed to break into U.S. computer systems and steal sensitive military and security information. Stoll began a one-man hunt of his own: spying on the spy. It was a dangerous game of deception, broken codes, satellites, and missile bases—a one-man sting operation that finally gained the attention of the CIA . . . and ultimately trapped an international spy ring fueled by cash, cocaine, and the KGB.

Stoll's vigilance and determination to uncover the truth were the driving forces behind his pursuit of the elusive hacker. As he delved deeper into the investigation, he encountered a complex web of intrigue and subterfuge that stretched across international boundaries. The stakes were high, as the stolen information threatened to compromise the security and defense of the United States.

Despite the risks involved, Stoll refused to back down, driven by a unwavering sense of duty and a desire to protect his country. His meticulous attention to detail and resourcefulness in piecing together the clues led him on a thrilling chase, with each new revelation adding to the suspense and urgency of the case.

Ultimately, Stoll's perseverance paid off, as his one-man sting operation succeeded in trapping the international spy ring. The CIA, impressed by Stoll's tenacity and investigative skills, lent its support to the operation, helping to bring the perpetrators to justice. This remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of individual determination and the critical role played by vigilant citizens in safeguarding national security.

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