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Global operation shuts down over 373,000 Darknet sites

Crime & justiceCrime
Key Points
  • Over 373,000 Darknet websites were shut down in a global operation.
  • The operation targeted sites advertising child sexual abuse material and cybercrime services.
  • Twenty-three countries participated, led by German authorities with Europol support.

A global operation against cybercrime has shut down over 373,000 websites on the Darknet. The operation, reportedly led by German authorities with support from Europol, began on March 9 and targeted a Darknet operator. According to reports, the operation, named "Operation Alice," ran from March 9 to March 19 and was directed at an operator running more than 373,000 sites where material related to child sexual abuse and cybercrime as a service was advertised.

The investigation also reportedly revealed the identities of 440 customers who used the operator's services. Europol's chief Catherine De Bolle stated in a release that the operation sends a clear message that there is nowhere to hide for criminals when the international law enforcement community works hand in hand. Twenty-three countries participated in the operation.

the operation sends a clear message that there is nowhere to hide for criminals when the international law enforcement community works hand in hand

Catherine De Bolle, Europol's chief

Transparency

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