The English-language data leak forum, BreachForums, operated by the hacking collective ShinyHunters, has been taken down for the second time in a year. Led by the FBI with assistance from the NCA and others, the international law enforcement operation resulted in the arrest of the BreachForums admin, Conor Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick, also known as Pompompurin, was sentenced to a 20-year term of supervised release for various charges including conspiracy to commit access device fraud and possession of child pornography. After Fitzpatrick’s arrest, another forum member named Baphomet revived BreachForums and continued leaking data. However, this criminal project, along with Baphomet’s Telegram channel, has now been disrupted. While the FBI has not made a formal announcement, the site now redirects to a takedown notice stating it has been taken down by the FBI and DoJ. The FBI is investigating the hacking forums, and the takedown has provided significant intelligence opportunities. There are concerns regarding the safety and attribution of forum members and potential fallout among the ShinyHunters collective. The operation is considered a success in the ongoing surge of law enforcement operations.
The US Authorities Successfully Crack BreachForums for a Second Time
