Former University of Michigan Coach Indicted on Federal Hacking Charges
A former co-offensive coordinator for the University of Michigan football team is facing serious federal charges after being accused of hacking into computer systems at over 100 universities across the nation. Matthew Weiss, 42, stands accused of stealing the identities of more than 3,000 individuals and accessing confidential information from approximately 150,000 student-athletes, the vast majority of whom were female. The indictment outlines a scheme spanning more than a decade, revealing a calculated and disturbing pattern of digital intrusion and privacy violation.
Weiss is charged with 14 counts of unauthorized access to computers and 10 counts of aggravated identity theft. Each count of unauthorized access carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, while each count of aggravated identity theft carries a maximum sentence of two years. If convicted on all counts, Weiss could face a significant prison term.
The details outlined in the indictment paint a picture of systematic and widespread cybercrime. Federal authorities allege that Weiss specifically targeted college athletes, primarily women, gaining access to their confidential information. This included personal data, contact information, and potentially sensitive medical records. The sheer scale of the alleged data breach, involving tens of thousands of individuals, underscores the severity of the crime and the potential impact on the victims.
However, the indictment goes beyond mere data theft. It alleges that Weiss also gained unauthorized access to the social media, email, and cloud storage accounts of more than 3,300 additional people. Through this illicit access, he allegedly downloaded personal and intimate digital photographs and videos without the knowledge or consent of the account holders. The indictment emphasizes that these were private images and videos, intended to be shared only within intimate relationships, making the violation all the more egregious.
According to the indictment, Weiss’s motive appears to have been voyeuristic. He allegedly sought to obtain private photographs and videos for his personal gratification. Disturbingly, the indictment further alleges that Weiss kept detailed notes on the individuals whose photographs and videos he viewed. These notes allegedly included comments on their bodies and sexual preferences, revealing a deeply disturbing and objectifying mindset. This level of detail suggests a calculated and deliberate effort to catalogue and exploit the private lives of his victims.
The investigation into Weiss began in 2023, when the University of Michigan Police Department launched an inquiry into a computer crime. At the time, Weiss was employed by the University of Michigan, working under the direction of then-head coach Jim Harbaugh. He also has ties to the Baltimore Ravens, where his brother, John Harbaugh, serves as head coach. Following the launch of the investigation, Weiss was placed on administrative leave and subsequently terminated from his position at the University of Michigan.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is taking the case extremely seriously. Acting U.S. Attorney Julie Beck issued a statement emphasizing the office’s commitment to prosecuting computer hacking and protecting the privacy of citizens. "Our office will move aggressively to prosecute computer hacking to protect the private accounts of our citizens," she stated. "We stand ready with our law enforcement partners to bring those who illegally invade the privacy of others to justice."
The case against Matthew Weiss serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities individuals face in the digital age. It highlights the importance of strong cybersecurity practices, including the use of strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and vigilance against phishing scams. It also underscores the devastating consequences that can result from unauthorized access to personal information and private online accounts.
The investigation is ongoing, and it is possible that additional charges could be filed against Weiss as more information comes to light. The victims of this alleged hacking scheme may suffer long-term emotional distress and reputational damage. This case will likely have a significant impact on the lives of thousands of individuals, serving as a chilling example of the potential for abuse in the digital realm. It is anticipated that the prosecution will seek a substantial sentence to reflect the severity of the crimes and to deter others from engaging in similar behavior. The case also raises questions about the responsibility of universities and other institutions to protect the sensitive data of their students and employees. As the investigation continues and the case moves through the legal system, it is certain to draw significant attention and spark further discussion about cybersecurity, privacy rights, and the importance of holding perpetrators of online crimes accountable. The potential far-reaching consequences of the alleged crimes will likely result in increased awareness and more robust security measures in educational institutions and organizations nationwide.
