FBI seizes over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas

The FBI has seized more than $560,000 in cryptocurrency that was allegedly intended to finance Hamas, the U.S. Department of Justice said on September 1, as part of an operation targeting the militant group’s fundraising networks.

The Justice Department said authorities also took control of website domains and communication platforms allegedly used by Hamas for fundraising and recruitment. Investigators obtained information on thousands of people who had contacted the group with the intention of providing financial support, The Associated Press reports.

“My message to Hamas is clear: your networks are not secure, your crypto is vulnerable, and we will not stop until your ability to wage war is defeated,” Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said in a video statement announcing the operation.

According to FBI affidavits filed in connection with the seizures, Hamas began testing cryptocurrency fundraising in or around early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, the group’s military wing. The affidavits said Hamas solicited donations through its Telegram channel and other online fundraising platforms, while promoting cryptocurrency as a way to make donations difficult to trace.

The investigation made a significant breakthrough last year when FBI officials identified a cryptocurrency financing network soliciting donations for the Qassam Brigades. A confidential source in the United States also alerted authorities to a Telegram post seeking contributions through an email address linked to Hamas.

Brett Leatherman, an FBI assistant director in charge of its cyber division, said the bureau would “continue to use its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organisations from exploiting digital networks to finance their operations.”

By Sabina Mammadli