Microsoft's Digital Crimes Unit delves into how it disrupts cybercrime

Cybercrime is a serious threat to the security and privacy of millions of people and businesses around the world. Cybercriminals use various techniques to steal data, extort money, spread malware, and disrupt critical services. To combat this growing threat, Microsoft has built a dedicated team of experts who work tirelessly to end cybercrime and protect customers.

The Digital Crimes Unit (DCU) is a global team of lawyers, investigators, engineers, analysts and data scientists who use legal and technical means to combat cybercrime. The DCU focuses on four main areas: malware, botnets, online child exploitation and intellectual property crime.

Malware is malicious software that can damage devices, steal data, or perform unwanted actions. Botnets are networks of infected devices that are controlled by cybercriminals to launch large-scale attacks or distribute malware. Online child exploitation involves the creation and distribution of illegal images and videos of children. Intellectual property crimes involve the theft or misuse of Microsoft trademarks, patents, or software.

The DCU uses a variety of tools and methods to combat cybercrime, such as:

– Take legal action against cybercriminals and their infrastructure.

– Seizure of domains, servers and accounts used by cybercriminals

– Work with law enforcement agencies and other partners to arrest and prosecute cybercriminals.

– Develop and implement technologies to detect and remove malware from infected devices.

– Educate customers and the public on how to protect themselves from cybercrime.

– Conduct research and analysis to identify emerging trends and threats.

The DCU's work has resulted in significant achievements in the fight against cybercrime, such as:

– Disrupted more than 500 botnets that affected millions of devices worldwide.

– Removal of more than 100 websites that sold counterfeit Microsoft products or services.

– Rescue more than 1000 victims of online child exploitation

– Recover over $500 million in damages caused by cybercriminals

DCU's mission is to make the Internet a safer place for everyone. By using legal and technical means to combat cybercrime, DCU helps protect Microsoft customers, products, and reputation. The DCU also contributes to the cybersecurity community's broader efforts to improve the security and resilience of the digital ecosystem.