The FBI has successfully seized the domains of RAMP, a prominent cybercrime forum that specialized in the trade of ransomware services. This operation dismantled a critical hub for global digital threats following the recent takedowns of similar illicit marketplaces.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation recently took control of both the dark web and clear web domains belonging to RAMP, a major Russian-language cybercrime marketplace. Visitors to the site on Wednesday were met with an official banner from the Department of Justice and the FBI announcing the seizure. This action was coordinated through the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida and the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section.
The platform had positioned itself as a primary destination for ransomware operators, especially after other major forums like XSS faced law enforcement interference. Following the arrest of key leaders in rival groups by Europol, RAMP emerged as a leading vacuum-filler for criminals looking to buy and sell malicious tools. It was one of the few remaining spaces where such high-level digital extortion was openly permitted and facilitated.
Originally established in 2012 and later rebranded in 2021, RAMP catered to a diverse international user base including Russian, Chinese, and English speakers. The forum was known for its exclusive nature, boasting over 14,000 registered members who were required to pass a strict vetting process. Those who wished to remain anonymous or bypass the background checks were often forced to pay a 500 dollar entrance fee.
In addition to its marketplace functions, the site served as an educational resource for cybercriminals by offering tutorials on how to conduct attacks. It also hosted various discussion groups where members could coordinate activities and share malware. The chief administrator of the site reportedly claimed that the platform was generating roughly 250,000 dollars in annual revenue as recently as 2024.
News of the shutdown began to spread within the criminal community after a member posted about the seizure on a rebranded version of a different forum. The fall of RAMP represents a significant blow to the infrastructure used by ransomware gangs to target global organizations. Law enforcement continues to monitor these digital spaces as they attempt to stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.
Source: FBI Seizes Website Used By Online Criminals For Illegal Activity