Hacker mastermind has Asperger syndrome

A NEW ZEALAND teenager, who is accused of being the hacker genius behind a botnet gang, suffers from Asperger syndrome according to his mum.

According to the New Zealand Herald, Owen Walker, 18, suffers from the mild form of autism, which is which is often characterised by social isolation but great intelligence.

The teen lives in Whitianga, which is a pretty, but fairly rural part of the universe. Not surprisingly Walker's school mates were understanding about his condition in that way that kids usually are about such matters, resulting in him leaving school in year nine.

Walker's mum, Shell Moxham-Whyte, said she had no idea her son was allegedly involved in the international hacking group known as the A-Team.

He has been cooperating with police after being located as part of Operation Bot Roast launched by the FBI in June to counter the growing threat from botnets.

Detective Inspector Peter Devoy said Walker has not been arrested or charged for his alleged part in the crime. µ