Govt Contractor Convicted for Deleting Federal Databases

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Former Government Contractor Convicted of Conspiring to Destroy Federal Databases

Sohaib Akhter, a 34-year-old former government contractor, has been convicted of conspiring to destroy dozens of federal databases following his dismissal from his position in February 2025.

Unauthorized Access and Deletion of Sensitive Information

Akhter and his twin brother, Muneeb Akhter, accessed computers without authorization and deleted sensitive information from multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security. They also attempted to cover their tracks by clearing system logs and deleting evidence of their activities.

According to court documents, the two brothers targeted 96 government databases within several hours, including Freedom of Information Act records and sensitive investigative documents.

This malicious activity was conducted shortly after Akhter was fired from his job with a company that worked with over 45 federal agencies and housed government data on servers in Ashburn.

Previous Incidents and Rehiring

Akhter and his brother were initially sentenced to prison time in 2016 for accessing US State Department systems without authorization and stealing the personal information of dozens of coworkers and a federal law enforcement agent. However, upon completion of their sentences, they were rehired as government contractors.

Prosecutors have emphasized the severity of the crime, stating that Akhter participated in the unauthorized access of protected computer systems, the theft of credentials, and the destruction of government data affecting numerous federal agencies. The deliberate deletion of databases containing sensitive government information demonstrates a blatant disregard for the security and integrity of federal information systems.

Akhter is scheduled to be sentenced on September 9, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of 21 years in prison. His brother, Muneeb Akhter, also faces significant prison time for related charges, including two counts of computer fraud, conspiring to commit computer fraud and destroy records, two counts of aggravated identity theft, and theft of U.S. government records.