Cybercrime marketplace shut down: Three arrested in Rydox bust

Tirana, December 12, 2024 – Albanian authorities have taken down a major illegal website called Rydox, which was used to trade stolen personal data and hacking tools. Three people, including a Kosovan national living in Albania, were arrested during the operation.

Rydox, active since 2016, served over 18,000 users worldwide and made at least $230,000 from more than 7,600 transactions.

What was Rydox used for?

The platform allowed criminals to:

• Buy and sell stolen personal details like names, addresses, and social security numbers,

• Trade credit card information and login credentials,

• Share tools and guides to commit cybercrimes.

Most of the victims were in the United States, with thousands of identities and financial details stolen.

A global operation

The takedown, called “Operation RYDOX,” was led by Albania’s Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organised Crime (SPAK). It involved help from the FBI, Kosovo Police, and Malaysia’s Royal Police. Investigators seized computers, phones, and cryptocurrency connected to the marketplace.

U.S. authorities also shut down the website www.Rydox.cc, which now shows a message announcing its closure.

Public warning

SPAK has warned people to be cautious online, saying illegal websites like Rydox not only steal personal data but also support criminal networks.

“Platforms like this harm privacy, safety, and public trust,” a spokesperson said.

They advised the public to avoid sharing personal details on unsafe platforms and report any suspicious activity.

A big win

The operation is being called a major success in the fight against cybercrime. Investigations are still ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network behind Rydox.