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FBI WIPES OUT MAJOR HACKING FORUMS AND ILLICIT SERVICES. MAJOR HIT TO THE HACKER UNDERGROUND?

Writer's picture: Tom MalkaTom Malka

Darknet and hacking forums


The takedown heard around the dark web—Cracked[.]io, Nulled[.]to, Sellix[.]io, Mysellix[.]io,some of the biggest hacking forums, have been seized by the FBI - Operation Talent.


By: Tom Malka, Head of Research, RAKIA

Jan 29, 2025


These weren’t just your average forums. They were breeding grounds for cybercrime, offering everything from stolen credentials to cracked software, botnets, malware, and fraud tools. And now? They’re gone.


What Happened?


Late last night, visitors to Cracked.io, Nulled.to, Sellix.io, Mysellix.io, and Starkrdp.io were met with a familiar sight—a government seizure notice stamped with the logos of the FBI, DOJ, and international law enforcement partners.

The forums, which collectively boasted millions of registered users, have been under surveillance for months. Authorities didn’t just take them down; they likely scooped up huge amounts of user data, which could mean arrests are incoming for high-profile members.


Why Does This Matter?


This is not just another forum takedown. This move hits some of the biggest marketplaces for cybercriminal tools and data—and it sends a clear message: law enforcement is closing in.

Here’s what made these forums different:

Massive marketplaces for stolen credentials – Data dumps, login breaches, and leaked databases were constantly traded.

Cracked software & malware distribution – These forums specialized in breaking software protections and repackaging malware-laced programs.

Cybercrime-as-a-service (CaaS) – Botnets, phishing kits, and automated attack tools were available for purchase.

This isn’t just about these forums. It’s about the underground’s ability to keep operating.



What's Next?


Users will scatter to new forums, Telegram groups, and dark web sites.

Law enforcement is watching. This kind of takedown doesn’t happen without long-term surveillance. Expect more busts.

Leaked user data? If the FBI has full access to forum databases, high-profile members could be exposed, arrested, or doxxed.



The Bottom Line


For years, these forums were the go-to platforms for cybercriminals looking for tools, stolen credentials, and illicit services. Now, they’re gone—and their users are on the run.

But the cycle continues. Another forum will rise. Another takedown will follow.

The game never stops. But for now? Law enforcement is winning.



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