IntelBroker Takes Control of BreachForums: A New Chapter in Cybercrime Management

Pietro Melillo : 22 August 2024 23:07

IntelBroker Takes Control of BreachForums: A New Chapter in Cybercrime Management

Introduction
The recent acquisition of BreachForums by IntelBroker marks a significant shift in the landscape of cybercrime. This transition of power occurs at a crucial time for the forum, which has recently experienced a period of stagnation and inefficiency under the previous administration. The arrival of IntelBroker as the new owner promises to renew and strengthen the platform, bringing with it a more active and engaged management style.

IntelBroker is an individual (or group of criminal hackers) operating in the dark web, among underground resources such as XSS, BreachForums, and Exposed. They are a threat actor operating within the hacker group “Cyberniggers,” active both in hacktivism and cybercrime, particularly as an Initial Access Broker (IAB). As previously mentioned, at the forefront of CyberNiggers is a seasoned member in orchestrating high-profile cyberattacks. Operating as an Initial Access Broker (IAB), IntelBroker specializes in identifying and selling access to compromised systems, paving the way for various malicious activities. Despite the collective identity of CyberNiggers, IntelBroker stands out as an individual threat actor. This distinction raises questions about the extent of their capabilities and the motivations driving their individual efforts.

Supporta RHC acquistando il Corso CTI:

Supporta RHC attraverso:

• L'acquisto del fumetto sul Cybersecurity Awareness
• Seguendo RHC su WhatsApp
• Seguendo RHC su Telegram
• Scarica gratuitamente "Dark Mirror", il report sul ransomware di Dark Lab

State of BreachForums under Previous Administration
BreachForums, historically recognized as one of the primary hubs for the cybercrime community, has experienced a gradual decline due to ineffective management by the previous owner. The main issues encountered included:

• Lack of Leadership: The previous administrator was often absent, causing significant delays in resolving user disputes and handling technical and operational site requests.
• Lack of Timely Intervention: The limited administrative presence led to an accumulation of unresolved issues, undermining user trust and compromising the forum’s operational effectiveness.
• Community Stagnation: Due to ineffective management, the forum saw a decline in activity and a reduction in new members, leading to a loss of momentum within the community.

The Emergence of IntelBroker: A Renewed Leadership
The introduction of IntelBroker as the new owner and administrator marks a turning point for BreachForums. Key characteristics of their leadership include:

• Active Involvement: IntelBroker is known for their hands-on and participatory approach to community management. Their consistent presence and active engagement have been positively received by users, who see them as a figure capable of restoring order and discipline to the forum.
• Established Reputation: IntelBroker enjoys a high level of respect and trust within the community. This is crucial for ensuring a safe and stable environment, especially in a context like cybercrime, where the leader’s credibility is paramount.
• Focus on Security and Integrity: IntelBroker’s management is expected to maintain high standards of security and integrity within the forum, essential elements for the platform’s success and longevity.

Future Prospects for BreachForums
With IntelBroker at the helm, BreachForums is poised to enter a new phase of development. Future expectations include:

• Renewed Community Growth: An increase in activity and new members is anticipated, thanks to the restored confidence in the forum’s management.
• Improved Governance: With a more active and responsible leadership, the forum is likely to see improvements in dispute resolution and daily operations, leading to greater user satisfaction.
• Strengthening Position in the Cyber Underground: The new administration could consolidate BreachForums’ position as a leading platform for cybercrime, attracting a growing number of users and resources.

Conclusion
The acquisition of BreachForums by IntelBroker represents an opportunity for the platform’s resurgence. With more dynamic and attentive management, the forum is set to regain its lost vitality and solidify its role in the cybercrime landscape. The community is watching closely as IntelBroker takes their first steps as a leader, aware that the future of the forum hinges on this transition.

Pietro Melillo
Head of the Dark Lab group. A Computer Engineer specialised in Cyber Security with a deep passion for Hacking and technology, currently CISO of WURTH Italia, he was responsible for Cyber Threat Intelligence & Dark Web analysis services at IBM, carries out research and teaching activities on Cyber Threat Intelligence topics at the University of Sannio, as a Ph.D, author of scientific papers and development of tools to support cybersecurity activities. Leads the CTI Team "RHC DarkLab"