INTERPOL’s Operation Targets Cybercrime Attacks
INTERPOL’s operation Synergia, conducted from September to November 2023, identified about 1,300 suspicious IP addresses or URLs. It targeted phishing, malware and ransomware attacks. The operation was a response to the increase in transnational cybercrime and the need for planned action against cyber threats, according to the INTERPOL news article.
The operation included 60 law enforcement agencies from more than 50 INTERPOL member countries, with officials organising house searches and confiscating electronic devices. Thus far, 70% of the command-and-control (C2) services have been dismantled, while the remaining servers are under investigation.
The officials apprehended 31 individuals and identified additional 70 suspects. Majority of the dismantled C2 servers were located in Europe, with 26 arrested individuals. The Hong Kong and Singapore Police took down 153 and 86 servers. The most takedowns in the African continent were reported by South Sudan and Zimbabwe, with four suspects arrested. Bolivia mobilised various public authorities to detect malware and address vulnerabilities. Kuwait closely collaborated with Internet Service Providers to identify victims, conduct field investigations, and provide technical guidance to mitigate impacts.
This operation showed how effective cybersecurity can be when international law enforcement, national authorities, and private sector partners collaborate and share optimal practices. During the operation, INTERPOL, alongside its Gateway Partners Group-IB, Kaspersky, TrendMicro, Shadow server, and Ad hoc partner Team Cymru, delivered analysis and intelligence support.
Bernando Pillot, Assistant Director to INTERPOL Cybercrime Directorate, said in the INTERPOL news article that the result of the operation shows an unwavering commitment to keeping the digital space safe. By mitigating phishing, banking malware and ransomware attacks, they come one step closer to making the digital space a safer and more secure online experience for everyone.
