Malicious hacking groups have found a valuable resource in the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system, according to a recent speech by an investigator. These cybercriminals are using PACER to study affidavits and gain insights into how investigations are opened and conducted. This has created a significant challenge for federal law enforcement agencies in the United States, as they struggle to keep up with the complex tactics used by hackers operating across borders.
The lack of standardized naming conventions for cybercriminal groups has also hindered law enforcement efforts. Different cybersecurity companies use their own names for these groups, making it difficult for investigators to coordinate their efforts and share information effectively. The investigator highlighted the fragmented naming landscape as a major obstacle in the fight against cybercrime.
In addition to these challenges, the investigator pointed out that there is no automated process for deconflicting cases opened in multiple locations that involve the same hacking groups. This lack of coordination makes it even harder for law enforcement agencies to track and apprehend cybercriminals who are constantly evolving their tactics.
Despite the efforts of the FBI’s National Cyber Investigative Joint Task Force to address these issues, the investigator noted that there are still significant obstacles to cooperation among different agencies. The task force relies on detailees from various agencies, who often prioritize their own agency’s interests over the collective goal of combating cybercrime. This fragmented approach hampers the effectiveness of joint investigations and leads to conflicts between agencies.
One proposed solution to these challenges is to allow personnel to work on cases anywhere in the country, regardless of where the crime occurred. This would enable investigators to follow leads and collaborate more effectively, especially in cases where the crime took place in a different jurisdiction than where the victims are located. The investigator emphasized the need for greater flexibility and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to effectively combat cyber threats.
Overall, the investigator stressed the importance of addressing these issues in order to improve the effectiveness of cybercrime investigations. With cybercriminals becoming increasingly sophisticated and operating on a global scale, it is essential for law enforcement agencies to work together and adapt to the evolving landscape of cyber threats. By implementing standardized naming conventions, improving coordination among agencies, and fostering a culture of cooperation, investigators can enhance their ability to combat cybercrime and protect the public from malicious hacking activities.
Written by Tim Starks
Tim Starks is senior reporter at CyberScoop. His previous stops include working at The Washington Post, POLITICO and Congressional Quarterly. An Evansville, Ind. native, he’s covered cybersecurity since 2003. Email Tim here: tim.starks@cyberscoop.com.