Global Task Force Dismantles Encrypted Criminal Platform ‘Ghost’, Leading to 51 Arrests – CySecurity News

In a major breakthrough, the Irish police service, An Garda Síochána, worked with Europol and law enforcement agencies from eight other countries to dismantle a sophisticated criminal platform called ‘Ghost’. The encrypted platform was being used extensively for large-scale drug trafficking, money laundering and other serious criminal activities. So far, the coordinated operation has led to the arrest of 51 people, including 38 in Australia and 11 in Ireland, and is being seen as a crucial step towards disrupting international organised crime.

Ghost’s advanced encryption capabilities allowed criminals to communicate without fear of detection, processing around 1,000 messages per day. It even had self-destruct capabilities to erase messages, providing a high level of secrecy for criminal enterprises. During the investigation, Irish authorities seized 42 encrypted devices and over €15 million worth of drugs, including cocaine, cannabis and heroin, linking the platform to at least four criminal gangs operating in Ireland. The platform’s takedown is part of a larger, ongoing investigation into organised crime groups that rely on encrypted communications networks to conduct illegal operations.

Europol Executive Director Catherine De Bolle stressed the importance of international cooperation in this operation, noting that the joint effort of several countries was crucial in dismantling a system that many criminals considered impenetrable. She said that such coordinated action shows that law enforcement can penetrate even the most secure networks if they work together. This operation marks a major achievement in disrupting illicit activities facilitated by encrypted platforms, proving that even the most sophisticated criminal networks cannot hide from justice.

Despite this victory, authorities remain cautious, acknowledging that taking down criminal platforms like Ghost is just one step in the fight against organized crime. Similar cases, such as the resurgence of the LockBit ransomware ring, serve as a reminder that criminals are often quick to adapt and find new ways to operate. However, this operation is a testament to the effectiveness of global cooperation and advanced investigative techniques, and sends a strong message to criminal networks that no platform, no matter its sophistication, is beyond the reach of law enforcement.

As the investigation progresses, Europol expects more arrests and the discovery of additional criminal activity linked to Ghost. This case highlights the continued need for international cooperation, technological expertise and sustained efforts to dismantle organised crime networks.