Law enforcement agencies have successfully disrupted a massive botnet operation that was illegally using residential computers to power a proxy service network, dealing a blow to cybercriminals worldwide.
The operation targeted a sophisticated proxy network that had infected hundreds of thousands of consumer devices globally, turning them into unwitting proxy servers. These compromised machines were then rented out to other criminals seeking to mask their illegal online activities.
"This takedown represents a major hit against cyber criminals who exploit innocent users' computers," said John Stevens, Chief of Cybercrime Operations at Europol. "The botnet operators generated millions in illicit profits while putting victims' devices and data at risk."
The criminal network operated by infecting home computers with malware that would quietly convert them into proxy relay points. These residential IP addresses were then marketed on underground forums as "clean" proxies for conducting various cybercrimes while evading detection.
Investigators traced the operation to several key suspects across multiple countries who managed the technical infrastructure and handled the illegal proxy rental service. During coordinated raids, authorities seized servers, cryptocurrency accounts, and other assets tied to the criminal enterprise.
"Beyond the immediate disruption, this operation sends a clear message that law enforcement can and will track down those who exploit residential computers for profit," noted Special Agent Sarah Martinez of the FBI's Cyber Division.
Security experts advise home users to maintain updated antivirus software and exercise caution with suspicious downloads to avoid having their devices compromised by similar botnets. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify additional suspects connected to the proxy network.
The takedown marks a substantial victory in the fight against cybercrime infrastructure, though officials acknowledge that other criminal proxy services continue to operate. Law enforcement agencies remain committed to investigating and dismantling these illegal operations that weaponize innocent users' computers.