FBI seizes hacking forum BreachForums for the second time

The FBI, in collaboration with international law enforcement agencies, made a significant breakthrough on Wednesday by seizing the infamous cybercrime forum BreachForums. This English-language forum has long been a hub for hackers and cybercriminals to trade stolen data, including personal information from Dell customers and data from a Europol portal.

BreachForums has a history of resilience, with previous seizures and changes in administration. However, this time, the feds not only took control of the forum but also seized the official Telegram channels associated with the site. The FBI left a message on both channels, announcing their control and inviting individuals with information on cybercriminal activities to come forward.

The FBI’s website now hosts a dedicated page where victims and forum members can provide information about BreachForums. The forum, operated by ShinyHunters, facilitated the buying and selling of stolen access devices, identification means, hacking tools, breached databases, and other illegal services.

Despite attempts to reach out to administrators like Baphomet and ShinyHunters for comment, there has been no response. It remains unclear how the authorities gained control of the Telegram channels, with possibilities ranging from arrests to legal orders.

This latest development comes after the previous administrator, Conor Brian Fitzpatrick, pleaded guilty to federal charges last year. The FBI’s actions mark a significant step in combating cybercrime and protecting individuals from the illicit activities that BreachForums facilitated.