Busted bunch of scammer in Operation Midnight Sweep
In a groundbreaking operation dubbed “Operation Midnight Sweep,” international law enforcement agencies have successfully dismantled one of the largest scam networks operating on the dark web.
The operation, coordinated between Interpol, Europol, and cyber units from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia, culminated in the arrest of multiple key figures and the seizure of extensive digital evidence.
The scam network, known as “Phantom Circle,” specialized in fraudulent marketplaces offering non-existent goods and services. Led by the elusive figure known online as “SpectreX,” the network had defrauded thousands of users worldwide, netting an estimated $50 million in cryptocurrencies over the past two years.
Phantom Circle operated several fake vendor websites claiming to sell everything from electronics and luxury items to fake identity documents and cryptocurrency wallets.
SpectreX, now identified by authorities as 38-year-old M. B. from Manchester, UK, orchestrated the scam from encrypted servers located in Eastern Europe and Asia. B., previously unknown to law enforcement, had established an elaborate system of fake reviews, escrow services, and customer testimonials, all designed to build trust among unsuspecting users.
The investigation began nearly eighteen months ago when cybersecurity analysts from the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) detected unusual transaction patterns linked to dark web marketplaces.
Following the money trails and digital footprints, investigators unearthed sophisticated laundering mechanisms employing mixers and anonymous cryptocurrency exchanges to conceal illicit earnings.
Collaborative intelligence gathering led to simultaneous raids in multiple cities. In Manchester, authorities arrested B. along with three associates identified as Jane C., Alex L., and Robert G. Each was reportedly responsible for different aspects of the fraudulent operations—ranging from website maintenance and technical support to customer interaction and money laundering.
Meanwhile, in Berlin, German authorities apprehended Lars K., a known hacker and programmer responsible for creating secure communication channels and maintaining the scam websites’ infrastructure.
K. was found in possession of multiple encrypted drives containing customer data, transaction records, and cryptocurrency wallets.
In the United States, FBI cybercrime units executed search warrants in Seattle, Washington, resulting in the arrest of Olivia M., the mastermind behind the fake reviews and testimonials that lent credibility to Phantom Circle’s deceptive practices.
Australian cyber authorities secured additional evidence and arrested Lucas B. in Sydney, who managed the group’s customer relations and handled cryptocurrency transactions in the Asia-Pacific region.
Interpol praised the cooperation between international agencies, stating, “Operation Midnight Sweep showcases the power of international collaboration in combating cybercrime. It sends a clear message to criminals: there is no safe haven on the dark web.”
Authorities are urging any potential victims of Phantom Circle to come forward, promising assistance in recovering stolen funds where possible.
This significant bust serves as a reminder to users of the dark web to exercise extreme caution and verify sources rigorously before engaging in transactions.
source: bbc
