US Department of Justice Partners with International Law Enforcement to Combat Dark Web Cybercrime

The US Department of Justice has partnered with international law enforcement to crack down on Dark Web cybercrime forums, with a pair of operations that disrupted underground markets linked to attacks on millions of victims globally. The long-term effects of these efforts are yet to be determined.

First Operation: Seizure of 39 Domains

In the first action, the DoJ, in coordination with the Dutch National Police, seized 39 domains operated by a Pakistani group known as Saim Raza (aka HeartSender). This operation was a significant step in disrupting the activities of cybercriminals and making it more difficult for them to operate.

Importance of Public-Private Partnerships

According to a DoJ announcement, the partnership between the US Department of Justice and international law enforcement is crucial in achieving transparency, accountability, and cooperation on a larger scale. "No single organization can effectively stop cybercrime alone," explains the DoJ. "Public-private partnerships can influence the disruption of large-scale cybercrime activities, leading to a safer, more resilient society. Every organization has a place in the chain of disruption against cyberthreats."

Impact on Cybercriminals

Taken on their own, the disruption efforts can be seen as an important thorn in the side of cybercriminals. Historically, attackers have had an easier time obtaining information and tools than defenders, giving them a perpetual advantage. However, actions like these make it more expensive for cyber criminals to operate, ultimately raising the barrier to entry for their criminal enterprise aspirations.

Expert Insights

Evan Dornbush, former NSA cybersecurity expert, notes that "Historically attackers can more easily obtain information and tools than defenders, giving them a perpetual advantage." However, actions like these make it more expensive for cyber criminals to operate, and ultimately this is a good thing. Lesser players who rely on purchasing tools and network access from these two marketplaces won’t be able to get started, raising the barrier to entry for their criminal enterprise aspirations.