DOJ and FBI Joint Operation: Over $560K in Crypto Seized, Fundraising Sites Taken Over
The U.S. Department of Justice continues its crackdown on Hamas cryptocurrency fundraising. According to a DOJ press release on September 1, the FBI seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas, while also taking control of multiple websites and communication platforms used for fundraising and recruitment. The FBI also obtained information on thousands of individuals who had contacted Hamas with the intent to donate.
Single Action Recovers ~$200K, Involves Over $1.5M in Flows
According to the DOJ, one action recovered approximately $201,400 from wallets and accounts linked to a system that had processed over $1.5 million since October 2024. The addresses are allegedly controlled by Hamas's military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. The FBI also seized the domain and servers used to operate the main Hamas website Alqassam.ps, allowing investigators to intercept subsequent crypto donations.
Hamas Tested Crypto Fundraising Since 2019, Boasted 'Untraceable'
According to an FBI affidavit, Hamas began testing virtual currency fundraising as early as 2019 through the Al-Qassam Brigades, with officials boasting that the currency was "untraceable." The group's website also provided instructions on how to donate anonymously. The operation also demonstrates that law enforcement can not only seize funds in a one-time action but also continue to intercept donations by taking over websites and servers.