Two Brothers Delete US Government Data Just Six Minutes After Being Fired
Two twin brothers in the United States have gone to extreme lengths by deleting 96 databases containing government data just minutes after being dismissed from the technology company where they worked. The individuals, Muneeb and Sohaib Akhter, both 34, have a documented history of cybercrime dating back to 2015, which resulted in prison sentences for both.
Following their release from prison, both brothers re-entered the technology sector. In 2023, Muneeb secured a position at a Washington DC-based firm that provides software and services to 45 US federal clients. A year later, Sohaib joined the same company. However, according to US government documents, the pair engaged in illegal activities following their termination.
On 18 February 2025, the brothers were summoned to a Microsoft Teams meeting where they were summarily dismissed. While Sohaib’s VPN and Windows accounts were blocked almost immediately after the meeting concluded at 16:50, Muneeb’s account remained active. Exploiting this vulnerability, Muneeb initiated a digital retaliatory strike.
At 16:56 local time, Muneeb began accessing US government databases managed by the firm. He executed commands to block other users and proceeded to delete databases one by one. Two minutes later, the database belonging to the US Department of Homeland Security was deleted using the command “DROP DATABASE dhsproddb.” Muneeb even utilised AI to seek methods for erasing his digital footprint, specifically asking how to clear SQL server system logs after a database deletion.
Within approximately one hour, a total of 96 US government databases were destroyed. Additionally, he downloaded 1,805 files belonging to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and stole federal tax data belonging to at least 450 individuals. During the incident, the brothers discussed the possibility of extorting the company, though Muneeb rejected the idea to avoid creating further evidence of guilt.
Three weeks later, federal agents raided their residence in Virginia, discovering various technological devices, seven firearms, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Both brothers were arrested in December 2025. Muneeb pleaded guilty in April 2026, while Sohaib took his case to trial. On 7 May 2026, a jury found Sohaib guilty of conspiracy to commit computer fraud, illegal password trading, and illegal possession of firearms.