International cooperation between investigating authorities has once again dealt a massive blow to cybercrime. Two of the world's largest forums for trading in hacker software were taken out of circulation by German and international authorities. The platforms "nulled.to" and "cracked.io" had millions of users who traded malware and hacking tools there. But that was just the tip of the iceberg.

The dark world of cybercrime: how does the trade in hacking tools work?

The internet forums "nulled.to" and "cracked.io" were not just simple platforms for software hacks. They were hubs for everything cybercriminals needed to prepare and carry out their attacks. From the theft of sensitive data to the execution of ransomware attacks - everything a hacker's heart could desire was available here. Users exchanged malware, stolen data and also attack techniques that put companies and institutions in extreme danger.

The forums were not only known as exchange platforms, but also as marketplaces for the sale of "tools" that could be used for hacker attacks on companies and private users. The devastating consequences of such attacks are omnipresent today: data theft, identity theft and massive financial damage.

International investigators crack down: The massive crackdown on cybercrime

Thanks to a coordinated operation by the German Attorney General's Office, the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) and other international partner authorities from the USA, Australia, Spain and other countries, the cybercriminal network was dismantled. In a total of seven searches, 67 devices, including 17 servers, as well as twelve accounts and domains were confiscated.

Particularly explosive: not only was information about thousands of hacking attacks found on the confiscated servers, but also evidence of a widespread network of cyber criminals who used the forums for their illegal business. German suspects are also among those arrested and now face severe penalties.

Consequences for the perpetrators: what penalties do criminals face?

The investigations have not yet been completed, but the suspects are already suspected of having acted commercially with criminal hacking tools. The penalties could be drastic depending on the role and severity of the crime. The operators of the forums could face a prison sentence of up to ten years.

In addition, the other parties involved - including people who worked with the platforms, such as payment and hosting service providers - could also be held accountable. Another interesting detail: assets in the mid-six-figure range were seized, which points to the lucrative business within the cybercrime market.