The Central Criminal Police is investigating cyberattacks. They found over 1,600 people who may have ordered the attacks. The attacks block websites and disrupt services.
Police Chief Jete Luik said that attacks can be purchased online. The aim of the attacks is to disrupt work. For example, services of banks, hospitals, and government institutions.
State Prosecutor Vahur Verte said that young people mistakenly think it's just a joke. However, it is a crime. It can damage computer systems and disrupt thousands of people.
In April, the police took down websites offering attacks. 53 websites were shut down. In Estonia, websites were not closed, but attacks were ordered here.
The police found 1,600 Estonian users who registered on the attack website. Some ordered attacks. The attacks targeted, for example, games, schools, and eKool.
The police are sending them a warning. They are mainly young people doing it out of curiosity. The police want to guide them on the right path.
13 people are suspected. They have been summoned to the police. The police want them to stop committing crimes. Young people are offered help to learn the law.
PowerOFF is an international project. Its aim is to stop cyberattacks. Estonia has participated in this project since 2018. This year, 20 countries participated.