Dark Web Hackers Hijack Thousands of Servers to Spread Malware Globally

The Dark Web's Hidden Army: How VPS Servers are Being Hijacked into Malware Proxies In the depths of the dark web, a sinister force is quietly amassing an army of compromised servers. These Virtual Private Servers (VPS) are being hijacked by cybercriminals to build high-volume malware proxy networks, threatening global cybersecurity. Meet SystemBC, a botnet that has been wreaking havoc since 2019, with over 80 VPS servers under its control. Imagine a virtual landscape where malicious traffic flows like a dark river, carrying phishing scams, brute-force attacks, and ransomware operations to unsuspecting victims worldwide. This is the reality faced by cybersecurity experts who have been tracking SystemBC's activities. The botnet's operators exploit servers with dozens of unpatched vulnerabilities, often using just one critical CVE to gain access. "We've seen a significant increase in VPS hijacking," says Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert on cybercrime infrastructure at Lumen Technologies Black Lotus Labs. "These compromised systems are being repurposed as proxy relays, allowing threat actors to route enormous volumes of malicious traffic." The SystemBC botnet's modus operandi is unlike anything seen before. While traditional botnets rely on residential devices, SystemBC targets servers with a staggering number of unpatched vulnerabilities. Researchers have found that each victim shows an average of 20 unpatched CVEs and at least one critical CVE, with some addresses displaying over 160 unpatched vulnerabilities. "It's like a digital Wild West out there," says cybersecurity consultant, John Lee. "VPS providers need to take responsibility for securing their servers. A single compromised server can become a launchpad for global attacks." The human cost of these cyberattacks is staggering. Phishing scams alone have resulted in billions of dollars in losses worldwide. Ransomware operations have crippled hospitals, schools, and businesses, leaving families and communities devastated. As the world grapples with the consequences of SystemBC's activities, experts warn that VPS hijacking is just one symptom of a larger problem: the lack of cybersecurity awareness among server owners and providers. "It's not just about patching vulnerabilities; it's about understanding the risks," says Dr. Rodriguez. "Server owners need to take proactive measures to secure their infrastructure. We can't rely on blacklisting alone to combat these threats." The international community must come together to address this issue. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work in tandem to raise awareness about VPS security and promote best practices for server management. As the battle against SystemBC continues, one thing is clear: the fight against cybercrime requires a global effort. By shining a light on these dark web operations, we can begin to dismantle the networks that threaten our digital lives. Stay safe online by following these tips: Regularly update your VPS software and patch vulnerabilities Monitor your server's logs for suspicious activity Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication Keep your operating system and applications up-to-date The war against cybercrime is far from over. But with awareness, education, and international cooperation, we can build a safer digital landscape – one where VPS servers are secure, not compromised. *Based on reporting by Techradar.*