Here's a breakdown of what he did:
* Created the Morris worm: In November 1988, Morris, a graduate student at Cornell University, released a self-replicating program designed to spread across the internet. While not initially intended to be malicious, the worm had a flaw that allowed it to replicate uncontrollably. This led to a massive denial-of-service attack, affecting thousands of computers and causing widespread disruption.
* Impact of the worm: The Morris worm had a significant impact on the internet:
* First major internet security incident: It brought widespread attention to the vulnerability of computer networks and the potential for malicious code to cause significant damage.
* Increased security awareness: The event prompted significant efforts to improve internet security, leading to the development of new technologies and practices.
* Legal consequences: Morris was charged and convicted under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, becoming the first person convicted of releasing a computer virus. He received a three-year probation, 400 hours of community service, and a $10,000 fine.
It's important to note: While the Morris worm was a significant event, Robert Tappan Morris did not intend to cause harm. He was a young, ambitious computer scientist who was trying to test the limits of internet security. However, the consequences of his actions were substantial and far-reaching. His case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible computer security practices and the potential consequences of unintended actions.