International Policing Operation Dismantle Malware Group

In a recent international policing effort led by the United States, a notorious malware operation known as Warzone has been dismantled. This operation, led by the US Department of Justice (DoJ), has been described as a sophisticated remote access trojan (RAT) with capabilities to eavesdrop on victims’ communications, steal sensitive information, and even watch individuals through their webcams.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a thorough analysis of the RAT, confirming its malicious intent. Meanwhile, law enforcement partners in Canada, Croatia, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, and Romania worked together to locate and dismantle the servers of this nefarious cyber operation. The DoJ also reported the seizure of www.warzone.ws and three related domains by federal authorities in Boston.

Acting US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, Joshua Levy, expressed the unwavering commitment to dismantling malware tools used by cybercriminals. He emphasized the dedication of law enforcement in preventing cybercriminals from attacking computer networks, as well as holding those who support these cybercriminals accountable.

Additionally, 27-year-old Daniel Meli of Zabbar, Malta, was arrested on February 7 and is awaiting extradition to the US. Meli was indicted by a federal grand jury in Georgia in December 2023 for multiple offenses related to causing unauthorized damage to protected computers, illegally selling and advertising an electronic interception device, and participating in a conspiracy to commit various computer intrusion offenses. It is alleged that Meli had been offering malware and services through hacking forums since at least 2012, including providing tools and ebooks to other cybercriminals. He is also accused of selling the Pegasus RAT through a group called “Skynet Corporation” and providing customer support to buyers.

In addition to Meli, a second man connected with Warzone, Prince Onyeoziri Odinakachi, 31, of Nigeria, was arrested in Port Harcourt. Odinakachi was indicted by a federal grand jury in Massachusetts for conspiracy to commit multiple computer intrusion offenses, including obtaining authorized access to protected computers and causing unauthorized damage to protected computers.

The coordinated international efforts by law enforcement agencies have led to the dismantling of the Warzone malware operation, as well as the arrests of individuals involved in these cybercriminal activities. The DoJ, along with its international partners, is committed to preventing cyber threats and holding those responsible for such activities accountable for their actions. This successful operation demonstrates the ongoing dedication of law enforcement agencies worldwide to combat cybercriminal activities and protect computer networks from malicious attacks.

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