Cyber Crime
FBI Strikes ‘The Manipulaters’ in Major Cyber Crackdown, 17 Million Americans Affected
As Google deploys AI-driven hacking bots, hackers battle among themselves, and the FBI remotely wipes malware from U.S. victim computers, the global war against cybercrime is intensifying. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has now confirmed that 17 million Americans have been affected by the latest FBI crackdown—Operation Talent—which has taken direct aim at criminal hacking networks. Among the biggest targets in this operation is a shadowy group known as The Manipulaters, which has now suffered a major blow.
FBI Cracks Down on Dark Web Marketplaces
According to unsealed seizure warrants, Operation Talent was a joint effort by the FBI and international law enforcement agencies against illicit dark web marketplaces. The operation successfully seized multiple servers linked to Cracked, a notorious cybercrime marketplace.
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Key findings from the investigation reveal:
- Cracked has been active since March 2018.
- The marketplace facilitated the sale of stolen login credentials, hacking tools, malware-hosting servers, and cyber fraud services.
- It boasted over four million users, with 28 million posts advertising cybercrime tools and stolen data.
- The platform generated approximately Rs 33.2 crore in illicit revenue.
- At least 17 million Americans were directly impacted by stolen credentials and cyber fraud linked to Cracked.
Pakistan-Based Cybercrime Networks Raided
As part of the global offensive, authorities have also conducted a separate raid targeting 39 Pakistan-based cybercrime marketplaces allegedly operated by The Manipulaters. This elusive group has been linked to major hacking operations and fraudulent activities.
Cybercrime Crackdown Gains Momentum
The latest actions by the FBI and international agencies signal an escalation in efforts to dismantle cybercrime networks. With AI-driven cybersecurity measures and law enforcement aggressively pursuing hackers, the battle against online crime is heating up.
Authorities warn that cybercriminals continue to adapt, making it crucial for individuals and businesses to stay vigilant against cyber threats.
