GARDAÍ HAVE HELPED take down a major part of the online network used by a criminal gang behind a series of international ransomware attacks.

The Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau was part of a joint international operation that led to the seizure of websites and online systems used by the Blacksuit Ransomware Group.

These included the group’s hidden “dark web” site, where they published stolen data, and a separate page where they demanded ransom payments from victims.

The operation was led by Homeland Security in the United States, with support from the FBI, the US Secret Service, and law enforcement agencies in the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Ukraine and several others.

Europol and private partners also assisted in the investigation.

The Blacksuit gang is believed to be responsible for a number of serious cyberattacks around the world.

The group first appeared in May 2023, after rebranding from the Royal Ransomware Group, which itself had links to the notorious Conti group, one of the most damaging ransomware operations in recent years.

In a statement, gardaí said the group is considered an organised crime gang involved in ransomware and other serious forms of cybercrime.

Assistant Commissioner for Organised and Serious Crime Angela Willis said gardaí will continue working with international partners to target those committing cybercrimes.

“Our work to date, including this seizure and takedown of key online operational infrastructure, will continue as part of our ongoing effort to keep people safe both on and offline,” Willis said.