July 2025 marked a significant turning point in the ongoing fight against international cybercrime. In a coordinated effort, Europol and Eurojust launched a sweeping operation—codenamed “Eastwood”—that led to the disruption of a notorious pro-Russian cybercriminal group. Authorities arrested several key members, seized more than 100 servers across multiple countries, and issued seven international arrest warrants.
Operation and Its Global Impact
The operation, which was months in the making, involved law enforcement agencies from at least 10 European countries. Cybersecurity specialists and investigators meticulously tracked digital footprints, monitored dark web communications, and followed complex money-laundering trails. The decisive action resulted not only in arrests but also the seizure of critical infrastructure used to coordinate attacks and launder proceeds from cybercrimes across Europe.
Early reports suggest the group was responsible for a wave of ransomware and credential theft incidents that targeted both public and private sector institutions. Their activities contributed significantly to the recent spike in ransomware attacks observed throughout Central and Eastern Europe.
Poland Under Fire: Recent Local Incidents
Poland was among the countries hit hardest in recent attacks. The LODMAN academic network and the Pisz County Office were both targeted by ransomware, disrupting services and raising concerns about the security of Polish institutions. CERT Polska, the country’s leading computer emergency response team, has issued multiple warnings about new, highly specialized browser extensions designed to steal data and hijack accounts—a trend that has sharply increased in July 2025.
Growing Threats and Defensive Measures
These events highlight the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats. Cybercriminals now employ increasingly advanced methods, including targeted phishing campaigns, supply chain compromises, and the exploitation of browser vulnerabilities.
Authorities recommend urgent updates of cybersecurity procedures, including multi-factor authentication, employee training, and robust data backup strategies. CERT Polska continues to closely monitor new threats and advises organizations across the region to stay alert and prioritize cybersecurity investments.
Looking Ahead
Operation Eastwood is a clear message to cybercriminals: international cooperation is growing stronger, and law enforcement agencies are getting better at tracking and dismantling sophisticated criminal networks. However, experts warn that as law enforcement successes rise, cybercriminals may shift their tactics or regroup elsewhere.
For now, the successful Europol-led operation is being hailed as one of the most significant blows to cybercrime infrastructure in Europe in recent years—offering hope for improved digital safety across the continent.
