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International Operation Targets DDoS Services
Law enforcement agencies worldwide have successfully taken down 27 prominent web platforms commonly used for launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
The operation, known as PowerOFF, is currently ongoing and coordinated by Europol, encompassing the efforts of 15 different countries. This collaborative initiative aimed at dismantling various levels of cybercriminal operations, leading to the arrest of three administrators based in France and Germany. Additionally, the operation has uncovered the identities of around 300 other individuals involved in similar activities.
Among the websites shut down during Operation PowerOFF are zdstresser.net, orbitalstress.net, and starkstresser.net. These platforms, often referred to as “booters” and “stressers,” have been widely recognized for their role in facilitating DDoS attacks.
Sarah Jones, a cyber threat intelligence research analyst at Critical Start, commented on the nature of these platforms, stating, “Although marketed as legitimate tools for stress-testing, they are frequently exploited for malicious purposes.” She further emphasized that by dismantling these services and identifying a substantial number of customers, law enforcement aims to disrupt both the supply side of these tools and the demand from their users engaged in illegal activities.
The holiday season has historically seen a surge in DDoS attacks, causing significant financial losses, reputational harm to retailers, and operational challenges for businesses.
In a bid to combat these crimes, law enforcement agencies have initiated an online advertising campaign utilizing Google search ads and YouTube, aimed at dissuading individuals from participating in DDoS-related activities by highlighting the potential consequences. Plans are also in place for direct outreach through “knock-and-talk” visits, along with issuing warning letters and emails to emphasize the seriousness of these offenses.
Source
www.darkreading.com