Global Crackdown on Cybercrime Forum
In a significant international law enforcement effort named Operation Leak, the notorious cybercrime platform LeakBase has been dismantled. The operation, which involved multiple regions around the world, led to the shutdown of the forum that had been a hub for trading stolen data.
Since its inception in 2021, LeakBase had amassed a notable user base. By December 2025, the forum had approximately 142,000 registered members who engaged in the exchange of illicitly obtained information, including personal credentials and financial details.
Seizure and Investigation Details
As part of the operation, law enforcement agencies successfully seized two domains associated with the forum and confiscated its database. This crucial move allowed authorities to uncover the identities of numerous users involved in illegal activities.
Investigators gathered extensive evidence, including user account details and logs of private communications. Europol reported that the forum hosted around 215,000 private messages and 32,000 posts, providing a wealth of information for legal proceedings.
Forum’s Structure and Operational Base
LeakBase operated through a credit-based system that fostered trust among its users, facilitating a thriving underground economy. Europol highlighted that the forum had specific rules against the dissemination of any data related to Russia, suggesting a potential origin of the operators.
The collaborative effort included law enforcement agencies from North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. These agencies coordinated closely to disrupt the network and apprehend key suspects.
Arrests and Future Implications
In the wake of the operation, several suspects were apprehended, and authorities conducted searches and interrogations. Actions were taken against 37 of the forum’s most active participants, although specific details remain undisclosed.
The takedown of LeakBase coincided with other significant cybersecurity efforts, including the dismantling of the Tycoon 2FA phishing platform. These operations highlight the ongoing battle against cybercrime and the importance of international cooperation.
The successful shutdown of LeakBase marks a crucial victory in the fight against online criminal networks. It underscores the commitment of global law enforcement agencies to combat cybercrime and protect digital security.
