Law enforcement seizes control of hacker group's website

Law enforcement authorities have seemingly taken control of an online site operated by the criminal gang LockBit, which orchestrates ransomware cyber attacks. The site is known for offering services that enable individuals to compromise computer networks and withhold data until a ransom is paid. A message emerged on Monday evening on LockBit's website, stating that law enforcement now has control over the site. The message attributes the takeover to the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency, working closely with the FBI and the international law enforcement task force known as 'Operation Cronos.' It mentions that the operation is ongoing and provides a time for further updates. The operation was conducted by various agencies, including Britain's National Crime Agency, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation, Europol, and international police alliances. Several partner agencies, including the UK's National Cyber Security Centre, had previously issued warnings about LockBit's persistent threat. LockBit's software was identified as the most widely deployed ransomware variant globally in 2022 and has continued its prolific activities into 2023. The group has been involved in prominent hacking incidents, such as targeting the UK's Royal Mail earlier this year. LockBit originally emerged in 2020 and was found on Russian-language forums, leading some experts to believe the organization operates from Russia.