12 Nations Launch Joint Action to Disrupt Cybercrime Ring

In the recent times, cybercriminals have used search engine poisoning techniques to make users visit malicious websites or download malicious software or scareware. In case of one of the techniques, attackers use fake alerts to scare users that their computers have virus and lure users to purchase fake anti-virus software. Usually, the scareware and fake scanners appear to be products of legitimate companies, making it difficult for Internet users to doubt their authenticity. Recently, Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), launched an enforcement action called 'Operation Trident Tribunal', which disrupted the operations of two cybercrime rings selling scareware. 12 countries - United States (U.S), Canada, Cyprus, France, Romania, Germany, Latvia, Netherlands, Lithuania, Sweden, United Kingdom (U.K), and Ukraine participated in the operation, which resulted in two arrests and seizure of over 40 computers, servers, and bank accounts.

The cybercrime rings defrauded over 1 million computer users resulting in loss of over $74 million. In case of one of the scams, Internet users were enticed to visit malicious web pages, which run fake computer scans. Once infected with malicious software, computer users, received fake pop-ups alerting them of virus infection, and luring them to purchase counterfeit security software for up to $129. In case of second scam, two individuals affiliated to an international crime group created a fake advertising agency. They then masqueraded as representatives of a hotel chain and acquired online advertising space on an online portal of a Minneapolis based Newspaper. Once the news portal approved and posted the advertisements online, the attackers replaced the computer code to infect visitors of the site with a malicious program designed to launch scareware. Counter crime agencies are making further investigations. Professionals qualified in masters of security science and security certifications in timely assessment of security threats. Counter crime professionals may benefit from online university degree courses and enhance their capabilities to combat growing instances of cybercrime. 

Computer users must install antivirus software from the websites of legitimate vendors. They must avoid clicking on pop-ups, and suspicious links. They must avoid downloading fake scanners, or fall prey to scams, which scare users to purchase security software and disclose personal and financial information. Cybercriminals are increasingly making use of spear phishing and other social engineering techniques to extract privileged information. E-learning and online degreeprograms may aid employees in dealing with various forms of online threats.

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