The United States, leading an international coalition of 14 countries, has seized and shut down the massive cybercrime forum LeakBase. Authorities announced the forum hosted over 142,000 members and archived millions of stolen user credentials, credit card numbers, and bank account details used for further attacks. The operation is a significant international law enforcement action targeting a key platform for trading stolen data.
U.S. authorities have seized the notorious cybercrime forum LeakBase in a major international crackdown. The operation targeted one of the world’s largest online forums where stolen data and hacking tools were traded.
Authorities said the forum had more than 142,000 registered members and hosted a huge archive of hacked databases. These databases contained hundreds of millions of stolen account credentials from high-profile cyberattacks.
During its operation, users bought and sold sensitive information including credit card numbers and bank account details. The data could be used to carry out further cyberattacks against companies and individuals.
Law enforcement from 14 countries carried out coordinated actions on March 3rd and 4th organized through Europol. Authorities shut down the website, seized its database, and took control of two domains used by the platform.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva stated the takedown demonstrates how international cooperation can dismantle key cybercrime platforms. He also added that the authorities will continue working with global partners to protect personal and financial information from criminal groups.
By removing platforms like LeakBase, officials noted it helps prevent further cyberattacks. The action serves as a warning to similar cybercrime networks operating globally.
