Frequently Asked Questions
This page provides support for you like a jock strap provides support for… Well, you know. Check out some of our most frequency asked questions here.
Can I submit a T-shirt design or other product to you?
Yes! We are always looking for compelling designs to use on Kingpin Empire gear. We’re also looking for existing apparel, music, electronic products, or other interesting materials to sell through Kingpin Empire and have their proceeds go directly to charities. If you want to contribute to the cause, let me know.
Can I get your stuff anywhere else but here?
Nope. Right now stuff is only being sold through the web store. However, I’d be happy to have Kingpin Empire gear sold by other distributors, online or physical, provided that they have the same motivation to support the cause. If you know anyone like that, let me know!
What’s a hacker?
To me, a hacker can simply be defined as somebody involved in the exploration of technology, somebody who wants to learn about technology and make it do things that have never been done before. It’s about creativity, education, experimentation, having fun, and breaking the mold of conventional thinking. A “hack” in the technology world usually defines a new and novel creation or method of solving a problem, typically in an unorthodox fashion. This is my idealistic view and often corrupted by the (intentional?) misuse of the word by mainstream media to define any computer-related attack ranging from kids defacing websites to organized groups taking advantage of technology for illegal, financial gain. However, the world would be a very different place without contributions from true hackers. No Internet. No computers. No video games. No telephones. No radio. No television. Being a hacker is a lifestyle and a way of life and I use the term with pride.
Who are you?
My name is Joe Grand (aka Kingpin) and I’m an electrical engineer and hardware hacker. I’ve been involved in the computer underground since I was seven years old. After getting into a bit of trouble with some telephone and computer mischief in the early 1990s while part of a crew called Renegade Legion, I became a member of the infamous hacker collective L0pht Heavy Industries, focusing my efforts on defeating the security of hardware products and sharing that knowledge with the world. Now, I run a product development and licensing firm, Grand Idea Studio. I grew up in the Boston hardcore music scene and I am also straight edge, a competitive triathlete, and unwavering when it comes to defending my values, my ethics, and my way of life.
How did you get the name Kingpin?
I started using the name Kingpin circa 1992. In the hacker community, a nickname or handle serves as your identifying mark. I had used a bunch of different handles in my early days, starting with Black Ninja in 1982 when I was seven years old. I progressed through Astro Zombie, The Youth, Autovon, and The Agent, until finally sticking with Kingpin. Kingpin has multiple meanings to me: it is the pivot bolt in a skateboard truck, a hardcore music band in Boston during the early 1990s, and its reference as a “crime boss” simply demands respect. And, no, I don’t really like bowling or Spiderman.
How do I return something I bought from Kingpin Empire?
We happily accept exchanges on defective merchandise or if we messed up your order and sent you the wrong thing. Returns must be done within 30 days of order. No cash refunds are given. If you’d like to return an item or have any questions, please contact me.
