Crime
U.S. Army Soldier Cameron John Wagenius Arrested for Alleged Cybercrimes Involving High-Profile Phone Records
He faces multiple charges, including unauthorized access to protected computer systems, identity theft, and conspiracy to commit cybercrime.
A U.S. Army soldier has been arrested in connection with a cybercriminal operation that reportedly targeted sensitive data, including phone records allegedly tied to President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The suspect, identified as Cameron John Wagenius, 20, was apprehended near Fort Hood, Texas, where he was stationed at Fort Cavazos.
Previously assigned to network communications duties in South Korea, Wagenius has been described by his mother as exceptionally skilled in technology.
Federal authorities accuse Wagenius of participating in a sophisticated hacking operation under the online alias “Kiberphant0m.”
He allegedly breached the systems of 15 companies, including major telecommunications providers AT&T and Verizon, to access and sell confidential phone records on black-market platforms.
Investigators claim that the cyber activities were conducted as recently as November, with the stolen data involving high-profile individuals and extensive illegal trade in sensitive information.
The breach is believed to have targeted multiple prominent figures, raising significant national security concerns.
While specific details about the extent of the breach and its full impact remain under investigation, it is clear that the operation exploited vulnerabilities in major telecommunications infrastructure.
Wagenius was arrested following an investigation by federal agencies, which traced his activities back to online forums where stolen data was sold.
He faces multiple charges, including unauthorized access to protected computer systems, identity theft, and conspiracy to commit cybercrime.
Federal officials have emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, citing potential risks to national security and the privacy of individuals targeted in the cyberattacks. Additional details about the case, including other potential suspects or accomplices, are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
This arrest underscores ongoing challenges in protecting sensitive information from cybercriminal activities. The breach of high-profile targets such as government officials highlights the vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and the increasing need for robust cybersecurity measures.
The U.S. Army and federal agencies have not commented on whether additional disciplinary actions will be taken against Wagenius, pending the outcome of legal proceedings.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.