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Youthful Hackers from Transylvania Hold Top US Firms to Ransom

Several top American companies have fallen victim to a group of Romanian hackers who have been practicing "cyber-terrorism" from the medieval town of Sibiu in Transylvania. These hackers, who were largely high school dropouts and work-shy individuals, managed to infiltrate the databases of security-conscious corporate America and demand a hefty ransom of $50,000 per company.

The Surprising Origins of the Cyber Terrorists

Romania, not known for its advancements in technology, took the world by surprise when it was revealed that a group of cyber wizards had emerged from the backwoods of Transylvania. Sibiu, the birthplace of Vlad Dracula the Impaler, was transformed into a hub of cyber crime activities.

The Modus Operandi of the Cyber Terrorists

The hackers' strategy was simple yet effective. They would hack into the servers of major US companies, access their protected databases, and download personal files of clients. They would then demand a ransom of $50,000 to avoid publishing these confidential documents on the internet.

FBI and Romanian Authorities Collaborate to Track the Blackmailers

As the targeted US companies sought help, the FBI joined forces with Romanian authorities to locate and apprehend the cyber blackmail gang. With the assistance of the Special Investigations Unit of the Romanian Supreme Court, the directorate-general for combating organized crime and drugs trafficking, and the Bucharest-based regional center, the authorities tracked the criminals to Sibiu in the Carpathian mountains.

The Capture of the Cyber Terror Gang

After two months of surveillance, the authorities caught two members of the gang in the act of withdrawing a ransom payment of $3600. These individuals were identified as Stefan Olaru, a 21-year-old high school pupil and the alleged leader of the group, and Sebastian Nicolae Zeicu, a 25-year-old unemployed man. Other members of the gang, namely Florin Lomnasan, Loredana Nastase, Emilian Militaru, and Vasile Somfalean, were also charged with complicity in blackmail and cyber crimes.

A Local Perspective on the Hackers

The Sibiu hackers, despite breaking the law and engaging in blackmail, are celebrated as Transylvanian Robin Hoods by the Romanian community. Their successful heist against corporate America is seen as a way to make the rich pay. Although Olaru and Zeicu remain in custody for further investigation, the other members of the gang have been released on bail, much to the concern of American authorities.

Hotels in Transylvania

While Transylvania may have gained international attention for its cyber terrorists, it also offers visitors a wealth of historical and cultural attractions that make it worth exploring. When planning a trip to this region, here are some hotels to consider:

1. Hotel Transilvania

Located in the heart of Sibiu, the birthplace of the infamous hackers, Hotel Transilvania offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the town's main attractions. Guests can immerse themselves in the medieval ambiance while enjoying modern amenities.

2. Castle Bran Resort

If you want an authentic Transylvanian experience, Castle Bran Resort is the perfect choice. Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains near the legendary Bran Castle, this resort offers stunning views and a range of activities for nature enthusiasts.

3. Brasov Grand Hotel

For those seeking luxury, the Brasov Grand Hotel is an excellent option. Located in the city of Brasov, it provides elegant rooms, exceptional service, and a convenient central location for exploring nearby attractions.

Whether you're captivated by the region's dark history or drawn to its natural beauty, Transylvania offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers. And despite the reputation of its cyber-terrorist past, the region's hotels are ready to welcome visitors with open arms.