Microsoft seizes web domains used by North Korean hackers

Microsoft said it took over online domains used by North Korean hackers, in the fourt operation of its kind against a nation-state entity. [GETTY IMAGES/AFP/File / Drew Angerer]

Microsoft said Monday it obtained a court order allowing it to seize web domains used by North Korean hacking groups to launch cyberattacks on human rights activists, researchers and others.

The US technology giant said a federal court allowed it to take control of 50 domains operated by a group dubbed Thallium, which tricked online users by fraudulently using Microsoft brands and trademarks.