In April 2023, the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) announced that they had set up fake DDoS-for-hire sites as part of a sting operation. These “booter” or “stresser” sites are designed to look like they offer tools and services that enable cyber criminals to execute Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Instead of providing these tools and services, the sites are collecting user data from those who attempt to use them. Those based in the UK will be contacted by the NCA or police, and those based overseas will have their data passed on to international law enforcement.
The NCA did not disclose how many booter sites have been set up or for how long they have been running, but they did state that hiring or launching DDoS attacks are punishable under the Computer Misuse Act 1990. They urged potential users to think twice about taking the risk of using these services.
Brian Krebs reported on the sting operation on his website, KrebsonSecurity.com. He noted the UK’s efforts in the fight against cyber crime and the potential implications of this sting operation.
DDoS attacks are a serious threat to online security. They are designed to overwhelm a website or server with traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users. They can be used to extort money from companies, disrupt business operations, and even cause physical damage to equipment. The UK’s efforts demonstrate their commitment to online security and their willingness to go to extreme lengths to combat cyber crime.
In conclusion, the UK’s National Crime Agency has set up fake DDoS-for-hire sites in an effort to combat cyber crime. They have collected data from those who have accessed the sites and passed it on to the appropriate authorities. The UK government is demonstrating its commitment to online security by taking such drastic measures, and it is hoped that this sting operation will be successful in deterring future DDoS attacks.
Key Points:
• The UK’s National Crime Agency has set up fake DDoS-for-hire sites as part of a sting operation
• The sites have collected user data from those who attempt to use them
• The UK government is demonstrating its commitment to online security
• Hiring or launching DDoS attacks are punishable under the Computer Misuse Act 1990
• Brian Krebs reported on the sting operation on his website, KrebsonSecurity.com