Core Insights - Google has disrupted the IPIDEA proxy network, which sold the ability to route internet traffic through consumer devices to malicious actors, making it harder for network defenders to detect illicit activities [1][2] Group 1: Disruption Actions - Google took legal action to shut down domains used by the IPIDEA network and shared technical intelligence about its software with law enforcement and research firms [3] - Google ensured that its built-in security protection, Google Play Protect, warns users and removes apps that incorporate IPIDEA's software development kits (SDKs) [3] Group 2: Impact of Disruption - Google believes its actions have significantly degraded IPIDEA's operations, reducing the pool of devices available to proxy operators by millions [4] - The disruption may have downstream impacts across affiliated entities due to shared device pools among proxy operators [4] Group 3: Industry Context - Despite the disruption of IPIDEA, the residential proxy providers industry is rapidly growing [4] - The threat from this industry can be mitigated by raising consumer awareness about apps that offer payment for "unused bandwidth" and encouraging the use of official app stores [5] Group 4: Recommendations - The industry is encouraged to require residential proxy providers to show auditable proof of user consent and for app developers to vet monetization SDKs [5] - Tech platforms are urged to continue sharing intelligence and implementing best practices to combat illicit proxy networks [5]