Public Appearances by John Draper, AKA ‘Captain Crunch’

John Draper
John demonstrating how he used the blue Cap’n Crunch Whistles to “Phreak The Phone Lines”.

Due to physical constraints, John Draper will no longer be making in person appearances, however is available virtually via video. Please use this contact form to make arrangements

John Draper, also known as “Captain Crunch,” is a notable figure in the hacking and cybersecurity communities.

Below is a chronological timeline of his significant public engagements and contributions:

Date

Event

Details

1971 Esquire Magazine Feature

Journalist Ron Rosenbaum’s article “Secrets of the Little Blue Box” profiled Draper’s phone phreaking activities, bringing him significant attention

1972 Collaboration with Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs

Draper met with Wozniak and Jobs to discuss blue box technology, leading to their small business selling these devices.

1977 Apple Computer Contract

Worked as an independent contractor for Apple, developing the “Charlie Board,” an interface device intended to connect the Apple II to phone lines.

1979 Development of EasyWriter

While on a work-release program, Draper wrote EasyWriter, the first word processor for the Apple II.

1983 The First Computer Freaks (June ’83 Esquire magazine) Read The June 1983 Esquire Magazine Article
1984 The Hackers Conference

Attended the inaugural Hackers Conference in Marin County, California, organized by Stewart Brand. This gathering included notable figures like Steve Wozniak and Richard Stallman.

1996-07-29 Art Bell Interview

Featured on the “Art Bell Classic” show, discussing his experiences and insights into hacking.

2011 Scene World Interview

Participated in an interview with Scene World, sharing his history in phone phreaking and demonstrating the Captain Crunch whistle.

2015-10-03 Vintage Computing Festival Berlin

Presented “Captain Crunch History,” sharing insights into his experiences with phone phreaking and early hacking culture.

2016-12-30 Scene World: John Draper Interview

Discussed his contributions to the hacking community and demonstrated the Captain Crunch whistle.

2023-09-01 YouTube Feature: “Meet the First Hacker in History also Known as Captain Crunch”

A video detailing Draper’s early hacking activities and his influence on the hacker community.