In a significant crackdown on global cybercrime, an international coalition of law enforcement agencies has successfully taken down two massive hacking forums, Cracked and Nulled, with over 10 million users. The operation, dubbed "Operation Talent," was led by German authorities and involved agencies from Australia, France, Greece, Italy, Romania, Spain, and the United States.

According to Europol, the two forums were the world's largest trading platforms for cybercrime on the internet, serving as one-stop shops for illegal goods and cybercrime-as-a-service, including stolen data, malware, and hacking tools. The platforms were used not only for discussions on cybercrime but also as marketplaces for these illicit activities.

The operation, which took place between Tuesday and Thursday, resulted in two arrests, seven properties searched, and the seizure of 17 servers, 50 electronic devices, and 300,000 euros ($313,000) in cash and cryptocurrency. The law enforcement agencies also acquired email addresses, IP addresses, and communication histories from the seized forums.

The two arrested individuals are German citizens, one living in Germany and the other in Spain. Additionally, two others will face prosecution by U.S., Spanish, and Greek authorities. The agencies identified twelve people involved in operating the cybercrime platforms, and a dozen accounts and domains across ten countries were seized.

A video published by Europol shows Spanish authorities, the Policia Nacional (National Police) and Guardia Civil, entering a building, arresting three people, counting cash, searching an apartment, and sitting in front of a computer that displayed the seizure banner.

This operation is the latest in a series of law enforcement actions against cybercrime forums. In 2023 and 2024, the notorious BreachForums was seized, and later in 2024, Operation Endgame targeted several hacking services and malware makers, resulting in the arrest of four suspects. At the time, Europol also identified eight fugitives allegedly involved in the scheme.

The takedown of Cracked and Nulled marks a significant milestone in the global fight against cybercrime. As cybercrime continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, international cooperation and coordination among law enforcement agencies are crucial in disrupting and dismantling these illegal operations.

The impact of Operation Talent will likely be felt across the cybercrime ecosystem, and it serves as a warning to those involved in illegal activities online. As the global community continues to grapple with the challenges of cybercrime, this operation demonstrates the power of collaborative efforts in combating this growing threat.