Operation Secure: A Landmark Initiative in Cybercrime Fighting
A Collaborative Effort Against Cybercrime
In an age where digital threats loom larger than ever, a notable stride has been taken in the fight against cybercrime through Operation Secure, a transformative initiative spearheaded by INTERPOL across the Asia-Pacific region. This concerted effort, which unfolded between January and April 2025, led to 32 arrests and the dismantling of a vast network responsible for infostealer malware campaigns targeting individuals and businesses globally.
A robust partnership formed the backbone of this operation, uniting law enforcement agencies from 26 nations alongside leading cybersecurity firms, including Group-IB, Kaspersky, and Trend Micro. Under the framework of the Asia & South Pacific Joint Operations Against Cybercrime (ASPJOC), the operation achieved significant milestones in neutralizing cyber threats that increasingly plague the digital landscape.
The Threat Landscape
Infostealer malware like Lumma, Risepro, and META Stealer represents a looming danger in cyberspace, capable of pilfering sensitive information such as login credentials, cookies, and payment data. These tools serve as stepping stones for more heinous attacks, including financial fraud and ransomware. Group-IB’s crucial role in Operation Secure was underscored by its provision of actionable threat intelligence, allowing law enforcement to effectively counter these malevolent schemes.
The outcome was staggering: over 20,000 malicious IP addresses and domains were successfully yanked offline, neutralizing an impressive 79% of the identified threats. Additionally, authorities seized 41 servers and reclaimed over 100 GB of stolen data linked to more than 216,000 compromised individuals. Every victim was promptly notified, enabling them to take critical protective measures against potential fallout.
Voices of Authority
Neal Jetton, INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime, emphasized the vital importance of international cooperation in combating global cyber threats. He remarked, “INTERPOL continues to support practical, collaborative action against global cyber threats. Operation Secure has once again shown the power of intelligence sharing in disrupting malicious infrastructure and preventing large-scale harm to both individuals and businesses.”
This endorsement highlights not just the operational outcomes but also the underlying ethos of cooperation that characterizes modern cybersecurity initiatives.
The Scope of Success
The ramifications of Operation Secure are far-reaching. 32 arrests were made, with the noteworthy capture of 18 suspects in Vietnam and another 14 across Sri Lanka and Nauru. This led to significant asset seizures in Vietnam, including over VND$300 million in cash, various SIM cards, and illicit business registration documents. Additionally, in Hong Kong, investigators uncovered an impressive 117 command-and-control servers spread across 89 distinct internet service providers, illustrating the global reach of criminal organizations targeted by this operation.
Dmitry Volkov, CEO of Group-IB, reaffirmed the critical nature of public-private partnerships in cybersecurity. He stated, “The compromised credentials and sensitive data acquired by cybercriminals through infostealer malware often serve as initial vectors for financial fraud and ransomware attacks. By sharing actionable intelligence with INTERPOL and local law enforcement agencies, we are helping to dismantle the infrastructure behind these attacks and protecting both organizations and individuals globally.”
Broader Impact and Future Initiatives
Group-IB’s involvement in international law enforcement extends well beyond Operation Secure. The firm played an integral role in Operation Red Card, a comprehensive multinational effort against cybercrime in Africa, which saw over 300 cybercriminals apprehended and disrupted operations that targeted thousands of victims.
As an official INTERPOL Gateway Partner, Group-IB collaborates closely with a variety of international law enforcement bodies, including INTERPOL, EUROPOL, and AFRIPOL. The company is also a key member of EUROPOL’s European Cybercrime Centre Advisory Group, enhancing cooperation between law enforcement and trusted private-sector allies.
A Commitment to Future Security
Through its relentless efforts, Group-IB stands tall in the fight against cybercrime, advocating for intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling the infrastructures of malicious actors. The company’s commitment to enhancing cybersecurity measures embodies a forward-thinking approach essential for navigating today’s complex digital threats.
The achievements of Operation Secure not only highlight the power of collaboration in combatting cybercrime but also set a precedent for future initiatives. As we move forward into an increasingly interconnected world, such partnerships are pivotal in safeguarding our digital lives from evolving threats.
