International Crackdown Dismantles Major Botnet Networks

The U.S. Justice Department announced a joint operation with Germany and Canada dismantling four major botnets, which infected over 3 million devices globally. These networks targeted devices to launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, including on Department of Defense websites. Major tech companies and Europol assisted in this international cybercrime operation.

In a significant international operation, the U.S. Justice Department, in collaboration with Germany and Canada, successfully dismantled infrastructure linked to four major botnets. These malicious networks, identified as Aisuru, KimWolf, JackSkid, and Mossad, collectively compromised more than 3 million devices worldwide, targeting thousands in the United States.

The botnets were primarily used for launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, with some striking websites operated by the Department of Defense. Notably, these networks exploited Internet of Things devices, such as webcams and Wi-Fi routers, for malicious purposes. In some instances, attackers even demanded payments from victims of these cyber threats.

Highlighting the operation's scope, Kenneth DeChellis, a DoD Investigative Service special agent, emphasized the commitment to countering emerging cyber threats. The widespread operation involved nearly two dozen major tech companies, including Amazon, Google, and Nokia, alongside the European Union's Europol, all working to dismantle the networks and hold individuals accountable.

(With inputs from agencies.)