Kaspersky aids INTERPOL in disrupting global cybercrime

Kaspersky has participated in INTERPOL's Operation Synergia II to help disrupt cyberthreats across multiple countries.

Operation Synergia II is a continuation of INTERPOL's previous efforts focused on dismantling malicious infrastructure related to cybercrime, including phishing, malware, and ransomware attacks. This global initiative, which took place from April to August 2024, involved law enforcement agencies and private sector partners from 95 INTERPOL member countries.

Kaspersky contributed to the operation by sharing data on identified malicious infrastructure worldwide, including details on command and control servers, malware servers, infected hosts, and botnets. This collaboration led to the identification of over 100 suspects, with 41 arrests made.

During the operation, approximately 30,000 suspicious IP addresses and servers linked to cyberthreats were uncovered. More than 75% of these were successfully taken down as a result of the combined efforts. In addition, law enforcement agencies seized 59 servers and 43 electronic devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and hard disks.

Various regions participated in specific activities under the operation. In Hong Kong, police took 1,037 servers offline that were linked to malicious operations. In Mongolia, investigations included 21 house searches, one server seizure, and the identification of 93 individuals connected to illicit cyber activities. Police in Macau took 291 servers offline, while authorities in Madagascar identified 11 individuals linked to malicious servers, seizing 11 electronic devices for further analysis. Estonia's police seized more than 80GB of server data to assist in analysing threats related to phishing and banking malware.

Neal Jetton, Director of INTERPOL's Cybercrime Directorate, stated: "The global nature of cybercrime requires a global response which is evident by the support member countries provided to Operation Synergia II. Together, we've not only dismantled malicious infrastructure, but also prevented hundreds of thousands of potential victims from falling prey to cybercrime. INTERPOL is proud to bring together a diverse team of member countries to fight this ever-evolving threat and make our world a safer place."

Kaspersky's Vice-President of Public Affairs, Yuliya Shlychkova, commented: "Kaspersky appreciates the opportunity to contribute to multi-stakeholder efforts aimed at combating cross border cybercrime. The collaboration between private companies and law enforcement not only strengthens the cyber defenses of the nations involved but also plays a crucial role in bolstering global cyber resilience. Together, through this partnership, we are elevating cybersecurity standards and establishing a blueprint for a more secure digital landscape on a global scale."

Kaspersky has a history of contributing to international law enforcement efforts. Recently, the company played a role in addressing fraudulent schemes surrounding the 2024 Summer Olympic Games.