Australian Federal Police Seize $6.4M in Cryptocurrency from Ghost Messaging Service Mastermind

• The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have confiscated 9.3 million Australian dollars ($6.4 million) from the alleged mastermind behind an encrypted messaging service known as Ghost.
• Ghost was used by organized crime groups for illegal activities like drug trafficking and money laundering, offering features such as advanced encryption and self-destructing messages.
• “The restraint of these assets shows the technical capabilities and powers that the AFP, and our partners through the CACT, are able to bring to bear on organized crime,” said AFP acting Commander Scott Raven.

AFP Seizure of Ghost Crypto Assets: A Major Blow to Organized Crime

A Critical Seizure: Dissecting the Downfall of Ghost

Following a two-year investigation coordinated by Europol and global law enforcement agencies, including the AFP, the encrypted messaging service Ghost was dismantled. This service, utilized by crime syndicates, facilitated activities like drug trafficking through advanced encryption and self-destructive messages. The operation culminated in the arrest of a 32-year-old man from Narwee, Sydney, on September 17 under “Operation Kraken,” leading to five charges, including supporting a criminal organization.

Cracking the Crypto: The Seizure Process

The AFP-led Criminal Assets Confiscation Taskforce (CACT) played a pivotal role in this coup. Specialized analysts deciphered the suspect’s seed phrases from hardware wallets found at his home, a critical step that allowed authorities to access and secure the crypto assets. This incident marks the second seizure of cryptocurrencies in Operation Kraken, following a previous confiscation of 2 million AUD ($1.4 million) in Western Australia.

Technical Mastery Against Organized Crime

Crypto hardware wallets are generally highly secure, keeping private keys offline and thereby minimizing susceptibility to hacks. However, physical access coupled with the right skillset can enable the extraction of seed phrases, as demonstrated by the AFP. Acting Commander Scott Raven emphasized the robustness of these operations, affirming that hidden assets, whether in real estate, cryptocurrency, or cash, would be scrutinized and seized.

Operation Kraken: A Broader Impact

Operation Kraken has had significant ramifications for organized crime. Since its inception, it has led to 46 arrests, 93 search warrants, and intervention in 50 life-threatening situations. The task force has also seized 2.37 million AUD ($1.6 million) in cash and 11.09 million AUD ($7.6 million) in various other assets. These operations not only curtail crime but also disrupt criminal financial structures.

Future Steps: From Seizure to Forfeiture

Looking forward, the CACT plans to have the restrained assets forfeited to the Commonwealth. These assets, managed by the Australian Financial Security Authority, are expected to benefit the nation’s crime prevention programs. This approach ensures that the proceeds from crime are redirected towards fostering public security and deterring future criminal activities.

Conclusion

The AFP’s recent success in seizing substantial crypto assets underlines the effectiveness of coordinated global law enforcement efforts. The disintegration of Ghost and the consequent asset seizures demonstrate the robust capabilities of the AFP and its partners. As Operation Kraken continues, it’s evident that organized crime groups will face increasing challenges in hiding their ill-gotten gains.