U.S. Seizes 145 Domains and Cryptocurrency in Major Dark Web Crackdown

In a significant operation against cybercrime, U.S. authorities have seized 145 internet domains and an undisclosed amount of cryptocurrency linked to the illegal dark web marketplace known as BidenCash. This action, revealed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is part of a broader effort to halt the access and sale of stolen credit card data and personal information online. The BidenCash platform, which opened in March 2022, quickly became a major hub for the sale of non-public information, including millions of payment card numbers and personal details such as names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. Officials reported that the site had nearly 117,000 members and generated over $17 million in revenue before its shutdown.

The platform was not free to use; it charged users fees for each transaction. Over time, it became a popular destination for criminals involved in stolen data scams. Additionally, the marketplace released tens of millions of stolen credit card records for free between October 2022 and February 2023 to build trust with users. All users who visit the 145 seized domains will now be redirected to a server managed by law enforcement, effectively halting any criminal activity on those sites. The U.S. was also granted court authorization to seize cryptocurrency funds linked to the platform, which were used to charge users for stolen data.

According to court documents, registered users on the platform could also purchase login credentials, which could allow unauthorized access to accounts, leading to further security threats. The investigation was initially led by the U.S. Secret Service’s Frankfurt Resident Office, with key contributions from the Secret Service’s Cyber Investigative Section and the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office. The arrests were formally announced by U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert, Resident Agent John Szydlik, and Acting Special Agent Philip Russell. The operation involved global collaboration, with contributions from the Dutch National High Tech Crime Unit, The Shadowserver Foundation, and Searchlight Cyber. This international cooperation highlights the importance of global efforts in combating cybercrime and demonstrates that dark web trafficking is not beyond the reach of authorities.

The shutdown of BidenCash serves as a strong warning to cybercriminals worldwide. It shows that the United States and its partners are closely monitoring online illegal activities and are prepared to respond. The seizure of 145 domains and cryptocurrency funds represents a major setback for cybercriminals, indicating that law enforcement is becoming more effective in stopping online crime. The operation underscores the necessity of persistent vigilance and advanced cybersecurity measures to combat the evolving landscape of cybercrime.