An extensive international police operation has succeeded in infiltrating the Ghost encrypted communications service, reportedly used by organized criminals across several countries, including Australia, Ireland, Sweden, and Italy. The operation involved over 700 police personnel in Australia who conducted a series of raids as part of a coordinated investigation.
This initiative continues a trend of targeting criminally dedicated communication services (CDCS), following previous successful operations against similar platforms like EncroChat and Anom.
In Australia, the operation, dubbed Kraken, was led by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and aimed to disrupt networks utilizing Ghost for serious offenses such as drug trafficking and planning violent crimes. Collaborating countries included Canada, France, and the US, among others.
The efforts have already resulted in significant outcomes, including 38 arrests and the seizure of more than 200 kilograms of illicit drugs, underscoring the operation’s effectiveness.
International Police Operation Breaks Down Ghost Encrypted Communications Used by Organized Crime
Ghost was marketed as a secure messaging platform, featuring advanced encryption and functions designed to protect users from law enforcement detection. However, it has been implicated in various criminal activities, including money laundering and orchestrating violent acts.
Authorities have charged a 32-year-old man in New South Wales, identified as the platform’s alleged administrator, with multiple offenses related to organized crime.
The investigation employed innovative tactics, including hacking into Ghost devices to deploy infected software updates. This strategy enabled law enforcement to access supposedly secure communications, allowing them to gather critical intelligence on criminal networks and prevent numerous potential threats to life.
This tactical success highlights the challenges faced by criminals in maintaining secure communications amidst ongoing law enforcement scrutiny.
The collaborative effort involved Europol and various national police forces, emphasizing the global commitment to combat organized crime. Officials noted that the operation demonstrates the relentless pursuit of law enforcement to dismantle illicit networks.
The successful breach of Ghost represents a significant setback for organized crime, showcasing the power of international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by encrypted communication services.
