November 27, 2024 at 03:39AM
INTERPOL’s Operation Serengeti resulted in the arrest of 1,006 suspects across 19 African countries and dismantled 134,089 cybercrime networks. It targeted ransomware, digital extortion, and scams, resulting in over $193 million in global losses. Multiple countries collaborated, with significant contributions from private cybersecurity firms.
### Takeaways from Meeting Notes on Operation Serengeti
1. **Operation Overview**:
– INTERPOL-led operation named **Serengeti** aimed at disrupting cybercrime in Africa.
– Conducted between **September 2 and October 31, 2024**.
2. **Key Achievements**:
– **1,006 suspects** arrested across **19 African countries**.
– **134,089 malicious infrastructures and networks** dismantled.
3. **Targeted Crimes**:
– Focused on ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), digital extortion, and online scams.
– Criminal activities included online credit card fraud, Ponzi schemes, and investment scams.
4. **Victim Impact**:
– More than **35,000 victims**, with financial losses estimated at **$193 million** worldwide.
5. **Notable Arrests and Discoveries**:
– In **Senegal**, eight people (including five Chinese nationals) arrested related to a **$6 million Ponzi scheme**.
– Evidence collected included **900 SIM cards**, **$11,000 in cash**, and victim information for **1,811 individuals**.
– A **virtual casino in Luanda** was dismantled that targeted Brazilian and Nigerian gamblers.
6. **Statements from INTERPOL**:
– Valdecy Urquiza, Secretary General of INTERPOL, emphasized the ongoing threat from the increasing sophistication of cybercrime and the impact of collaboration among nations.
7. **Private Sector Collaboration**:
– **Group-IB** identified **10,000 DDoS attacks** and over **3,000 phishing domains** linked to Africa.
– **Kaspersky** contributed by sharing intelligence on threat actors and malware.
8. **Future Efforts**:
– INTERPOL plans to continue targeting global criminal groups in response to the rising cybercrime threats.
### Follow-Up Actions:
– Stay informed with updates by following the organization on **Twitter** and **LinkedIn**.