Europol Takes Down MATRIX Messaging Network

Described as a messaging service made by criminals for criminals.

The encrypted messaging service MATRIX has been intercepted by Europol.

Described as a “messaging service made by criminals for criminals”, the interception saw primary servers in France and Germany taken down, with one suspect arrested in France and two in Spain.

For three months, authorities were able to monitor the messages from possible criminals, which will now be used to support other investigations. The messages that were intercepted are linked to serious crimes such as international drug trafficking, arms trafficking, and money laundering.

Jake Moore, global cybersecurity advisor at ESET, said: “Criminals flourish on hidden and secure communication channels, so for an encrypted service used for illicit means to be shutdown is both significant and impressive.

“The interception and removal of the platform highlights the ongoing work taken by law enforcement in attempting to intervene in digital spaces. However, it also reminds us of the current challenges facing police forces around the world. Capturing evidence will still remain at the heart of the investigation as few prosecutions in cybercrime make it to a court hearing.”

Mobile Published: 4 December