Europol's 'Operation Endgame' Dismantles Major Cybercrime Infrastructure
Europol's 'Operation Endgame' has dealt a significant blow to cybercrime, dismantling several malware protection droppers and disrupting numerous criminal operations. The operation, led by France, Germany, and the Netherlands, resulted in the takedown of droppers like IcedID, SystemBC, Pikabot, Smokeloader, Bumblebee, and Trickbot.
Over 100 servers were seized, and more than 2000 domains were confiscated. The operation also involved searching 16 houses, with 11 in Ukraine, leading to 4 arrests, including 3 in Ukraine. The impact of the operation is substantial, with estimates suggesting the damage caused by the botnet infections amounts to several hundred million euros in Europe.
The operation targeted 'droppers', a form of malware that acts as an entry point for other malware. One prime suspect earned at least €69 million in cryptocurrencies by renting out the dropper to ransomware hackers. The operation may have also affected Monero mining due to its potential use in cryptojacking via droppers.
Following the operation, 8 cybercriminals remain at large and have been added to 'Europe's Most Wanted' list. The operation is ongoing, with more arrests and droppers/botnets to be taken down.
Europol's 'Operation Endgame' has significantly disrupted cybercrime infrastructure and the spread of malware. With several arrests made and numerous malwarebytes dismantled, the operation has dealt a substantial blow to cybercriminals. The ongoing nature of the operation suggests that further disruptions and arrests are likely in the near future.
