Former Disney Employee to Plead Guilty to Hacking Menu Software
A former Disney employee has agreed to plead guilty to two felony counts, including computer fraud and aggravated identity theft, for hacking into the company’s menu-creation software. Michael Scheuer, a former menu production manager, made unauthorized changes to Disney restaurant menus, including falsely indicating that certain food items did not contain deadly allergens such as peanuts.
Alarming Consequences
The changes Scheuer made to the menus could have had fatal consequences for customers with severe allergies. He added notations to menu items indicating they were safe for people with specific allergies, which could have led to serious harm or even death.
Malicious Intent
Scheuer’s actions went beyond just altering menu items. He also changed fonts, caused some pages to be blank, and replaced geographic regions with the locations of recent mass shootings on wine menus. In one instance, he even added a swastika to a menu.
Cyberattack and Harassment
After being fired from Disney, Scheuer launched a cyberattack designed to lock Disney employees out of their online accounts. He targeted 14 employees who had interacted with him during his time at the company. Federal agents raided his residence, seizing his computer and putting an end to the attacks.
Stalking and Intimidation
Scheuer’s behavior became increasingly disturbing when he showed up at the residence of one of the employees targeted in the cyberattack. He was caught on security camera footage parking in front of the employee’s home, approaching the front door, and inspecting a package label before giving a thumbs up to the camera.
Mental Health Issues
Scheuer’s lawyer claims that his client’s mental health issues were exacerbated when Disney fired him after he returned from paternity leave. While Scheuer has agreed to plead guilty, his lawyer argues that he is deeply remorseful for his actions and that no one was ever at risk of injury.
Consequences and Sentencing
Scheuer will be subject to a restitution order and fine when he is sentenced. The amount of monetary loss to Disney, which has yet to be determined, will affect the range of recommended prison time for him.
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