Clifford Stoll

Date of Birth: June 4, 1950

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Clifford Stoll is an American astronomer, author, and teacher best known for his book “The Cuckoo’s Egg,” which recounts his experiences tracking a hacker who infiltrated a computer network at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in the 1980s. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Stoll developed an early interest in science and technology, eventually earning a Ph.D. in Astronomy from the University of Arizona. He transitioned from astronomy to computer security almost by accident when he was tasked with investigating a 75-cent accounting discrepancy, a pursuit that led him to uncover an extensive espionage operation. Stoll has since become a prominent commentator on technology and cybersecurity, delivering engaging lectures and writing several other books. He is known for his passionate and often humorous approach to complex topics, making him a beloved figure in both the scientific and tech communities.

5 Interesting Facts about Clifford Stoll

1. Clifford Stoll is often credited with being one of the first people to highlight the importance of cybersecurity.

2. He has appeared on several major television shows, including “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

3. Stoll is also an accomplished glassblower and operates a small business selling Klein bottles, a type of mathematical shape.

4. “The Cuckoo’s Egg” has been translated into multiple languages and remains a staple in the field of cybersecurity literature.

5. He received a MacArthur Fellowship, often referred to as a “genius grant,” in 1990 for his contributions to science and technology.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Clifford Stoll

1. “Data is not information, information is not knowledge, knowledge is not understanding, understanding is not wisdom.”

2. “The first time you do something, it’s science. The second time, it’s engineering. A third time, it’s just being a technician.”

3. “Treat your password like your toothbrush. Don’t let anybody else use it, and get a new one every six months.”

4. “The Internet is a telephone system that’s gotten uppity.”

5. “While we’re all very dependent on technology, it doesn’t always work.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Clifford Stoll’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million at its peak, largely attributed to his book sales, speaking engagements, and small business ventures.

Children

Clifford Stoll has two children, a son and a daughter, with his wife, Deborah Stoll. He has kept his personal life relatively private, so not much more information is publicly available about his children.