LeakBase Cybercrime Forum Shut Down, Suspects Arrested in Global Law Enforcement Operation
International Law Enforcement Operation Shuts Down LeakBase Cybercrime Forum
Operation Leak Dismantles Major Cybercrime Forum
A major cybercrime forum known as LeakBase has been dismantled as part of a global law enforcement operation dubbed Operation Leak. The platform, which had been active since 2021, was taken offline after authorities seized its database and shut down two associated domains.
LeakBase’s Illicit Activities
According to Europol, the European Union’s law enforcement agency, the forum had amassed a significant following, with approximately 142,000 users as of December 2025. The platform’s database contained a vast repository of illicit data, including 215,000 private messages and 32,000 forum posts.
LeakBase’s business model was built around a credit-based economy and reputation-driven user system, which fostered trust among its user base and facilitated the exchange of sensitive information. Notably, the forum’s internal rules prohibited the sale or publication of any data related to Russia, suggesting that the platform’s operators may have had ties to the country.
Operation Leak and Its Impact
Operation Leak involved law enforcement agencies from North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. As part of the operation, authorities arrested suspects, conducted house searches, and carried out knock-and-talk interventions. Additionally, measures were taken against 37 of the forum’s most active users.
A Coordinated Effort Against Cybercrime
The takedown of LeakBase was announced on the same day that Europol, Microsoft, and several cybersecurity companies revealed the dismantling of the Tycoon 2FA phishing platform. The coordinated effort demonstrates the increasing cooperation among law enforcement agencies and private sector entities in the fight against cybercrime.
A Significant Blow to Cybercrime
The shutdown of LeakBase marks a significant blow to the global cybercrime community, and serves as a testament to the effectiveness of international cooperation in disrupting and dismantling illicit online platforms.
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