Cracked.io was a prominent online forum that facilitated various cybercriminal activities, including the sale of stolen login credentials, hacking tools, and other illicit services. It served as a hub for individuals seeking to engage in or learn about unauthorized access to digital accounts and systems.
In January 2025, Cracked.io, along with another similar platform, Nulled.to, was taken down by international law enforcement agencies as part of a coordinated operation known as "Operation Talent." This operation involved authorities from multiple countries, including the United States, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Romania, and Australia. The crackdown aimed to disrupt the underground economy that these forums supported.
Cracked.io had been operational since at least 2018 and was known for offering a marketplace where users could buy and sell stolen data, malware, and access to compromised systems. The platform also provided tools and tutorials for conducting cyberattacks, making it a significant player in the cybercrime ecosystem.
Following the takedown, authorities seized servers, electronic devices, and substantial amounts of cash and cryptocurrencies. Several individuals associated with the operation of these forums were arrested and face charges related to identity theft, fraud, and other cybercrime offenses