UK's NCA Launches 'Power Off' Operation to Combat Cybercrime
The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) has launched an innovative operation to combat cybercrime. They've set up fake DDoS-for-hire websites, known as 'booters' or 'stressers', to gather information on users and deter illegal activities.
The NCA's operation, named 'Power Off', has seen several thousand users accessing these decoy sites. After registration, UK-based users receive warnings about the illegality of engaging in cybercrime under the Computer Misuse Act 1990. Overseas users' information is shared with international law enforcement.
In 2022, the NCA arrested an 18-year-old man, Mikey, who operated the 'SHOPBOOTER' website. This follows a similar U.S. operation in December 2022, where the Department of Justice seized 48 booter business domains and charged six men with computer crimes. The NCA advises that using these services carries an unknown risk due to potential law enforcement involvement.
The NCA's creative approach to cybercrime prevention has shown promising results. By setting up fake DDoS-for-hire sites, they've been able to gather valuable information and deter potential cybercriminals. Both the UK and the U.S. have demonstrated their commitment to combating this type of crime, with serious consequences for those involved.
