Kenya Joins Global Cybercrime Crackdown That Shut Down 45,000 Malicious Servers

Kenya participates in international cybercrime crackdown, aiding global operation that dismantled tens of thousands of malicious online infrastructures.

Between July 2025 and January 2026, Operation Synergia III targeted criminal networks involved in phishing scams, malware distribution, and ransomware attacks. The coordinated effort led to the takedown of more than 45,000 compromised IP addresses and servers and resulted in 94 arrests worldwide. Authorities continue to investigate 110 additional suspects.

Investigators analysed large volumes of suspicious online activity to produce actionable intelligence, enabling police in multiple countries to conduct raids, seize servers, and disrupt networks used to steal personal and financial information. INTERPOL emphasised that the operation focused not only on enforcement but also on strengthening member states’ capabilities, providing tactical support, and promoting cross-border cooperation.

The operation revealed a wide range of cybercrime methods. In Macau, authorities uncovered over 33,000 fraudulent websites posing as casinos, banks, and government portals to steal login credentials and credit card information. In West Africa, Togo dismantled a local cyber ring involved in romance scams and sextortion. In Bangladesh, 40 suspects were arrested in connection with job scams, loan fraud, and identity theft. 

Across the operation, 212 electronic devices and servers were seized, believed to host malicious software and phishing platforms. Kenya’s participation reflects its growing commitment to international cyber policing. The National Police Service (NPS) maintains close collaboration with INTERPOL and recently introduced a permanent training curriculum to enhance officers’ use of global policing databases and secure communication channels. 

The INTERPOL Policing Capabilities Foundation Course, launched in March, equips Kenyan officers to identify suspects efficiently and coordinate investigations across borders.