Ransomware groups have faced significant disruption due to recent law enforcement actions, as outlined in Europol’s latest Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment (IOCTA). The report, now in its 10th edition, delves into key developments in cybercrime over the past year, highlighting issues such as cyber-attacks, online fraud, and child exploitation. It also predicts future challenges related to new technologies, cryptocurrencies, and illicit online content.
One of the key findings of the report is the fragmentation of ransomware groups as a result of law enforcement crackdowns and takedowns of dark web forums and marketplaces. This has led to a rise in cyber-threats targeting individuals across the EU, including attacks on small and medium-sized businesses, digital skimming, phishing, and fraud. Of particular concern is the increase in online sexual extortion targeting vulnerable minors.
The IOCTA 2024 also sheds light on the growing trend of multi-layered extortion tactics, where stolen data is threatened with publication or auction, potentially leading to revictimization. The report also notes that offenders, some of whom are younger, are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate their criminal activities.
AI-assisted child sexual abuse material (CSAM) poses a new challenge for law enforcement, complicating the identification of victims and perpetrators with altered or entirely artificial content. Additionally, the report addresses the use of cryptocurrencies in various crimes and the challenges posed by mainstream end-to-end encryption (E2EE) communication platforms.
In response to these evolving threats, Europol emphasizes the need for law enforcement to have the necessary knowledge, tools, and legislation in place. As criminals adapt, law enforcement and legislators must innovate to stay ahead and leverage new technologies. This includes specialized training to investigate technically challenging cybercrimes involving cryptocurrencies and the dark web.
Overall, the IOCTA 2024 underscores the importance of staying ahead of cyber threats and adapting to new challenges in the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime. Europol urges a proactive approach to combatting these threats and emphasizes the need for ongoing training and technological advancements in law enforcement efforts.