Europol recently uncovered a significant 'malware dropping' plot worth €69 million ($75 million) within the framework of 'Operation Endgame.' Initiated by France, Germany, and the Netherlands, the operation targeted malicious droppers like IcedID, SystemBC, Pikabot, Smokeloader, Bumblebee, and Trickbot. Resulting in the apprehension of four individuals, dismantling of over 100 servers globally, and seizure of 2,000 domains, Operation Endgame was a coordinated effort against cyber threats.

The mastermind behind the scheme, responsible for accumulating $75 million in cryptocurrency earnings, specialized in renting out criminal infrastructure and deploying harmful software. Europol clarified that malware droppers are a type of malicious software that facilitate the installation of additional malware on a designated system. Despite not directly causing harm, droppers are pivotal in breaching security measures and executing harmful software like viruses and ransomware during cyber attacks.

Europol emphasized continued monitoring of the suspect's financial activities, with legal provisions in place for asset seizure in future developments.

In collaboration with the UK and the US, alongside support from multiple countries, Europol's operation targeted diverse cyber offenses. Recent actions led to the arrest of a perpetrator engaged in botnet scams and other criminal activities, netting $130 million in cryptocurrency through illicit means. The Operation Endgame website serves as a hub for updates and announcements on law enforcement activities, hinting at future endeavors.