What are the legal ramifications and international cooperation efforts involved in prosecuting individuals or groups behind DDoS attacks?

Launching a DDoS attack is illegal in most countries and typically falls under computer misuse or cybercrime laws. Penalties can range from significant fines to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the severity of the attack, the damage caused, and the jurisdiction. Examples include the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) in the U.S. and similar legislation in Europe and other regions. International cooperation through bodies like Interpol, Europol, and various national cybercrime units is crucial for investigating and prosecuting perpetrators, as DDoS attacks often involve attackers, botnets, and targets located across different national borders, making cross-border legal action complex but increasingly common.