U.S. Disrupts Botnet, Charges Russians in Crackdown

U.S. authorities have disrupted a major cybercrime operation involving two proxy services—Anyproxy and 5socks—that leveraged infected devices to form a botnet, according to a law enforcement announcement. The takedown targeted infrastructure used to mask malicious online activity by routing traffic through compromised systems without the owners’ knowledge.

The operation, which disabled both platforms, marks a significant step in efforts to curb the misuse of proxy networks for illicit purposes, including cyberattacks and fraud. Officials also revealed charges against Russian administrators allegedly involved in running the services, although no further identity details were provided.

The investigation highlights the growing threat of proxy-based botnets, which exploit vulnerable devices globally to create vast networks capable of concealing digital footprints. By dismantling these services, authorities aim to limit cybercriminals’ ability to evade detection.

The takedown underscores ongoing international efforts to dismantle cyber infrastructure facilitating anonymous and illegal online activity.