In a significant operation, Secret Service agents have dismantled a complex network of electronic devices situated at multiple locations around New York City that posed a serious threat to the city’s cellphone network.
Officials disclosed that the network was capable of enabling anonymous communications tied to assassination threats against senior U.S. officials, as well as other criminal activities.
During the investigation, agents found over 300 co-located SIM servers and an astounding 100,000 SIM cards across five sites within a 35-mile radius of New York City.
In addition to the communication devices, agents also seized illegal items, including 80 grams of cocaine, firearms, computers, and cellphones.
Matt McCool, the head of the Secret Service New York field office, emphasized the critical nature of these devices.
He stated, “These devices allowed anonymous, encrypted communications between potential threat actors and criminal enterprises, enabling criminal organizations to operate undetected.”
Furthermore, he warned that the network had the potential to disable cellphone towers, potentially shutting down the entire cellular network in New York City.
The investigation has raised concerns about whether the network’s creators intended to disrupt the ongoing United Nations General Assembly, taking place this week in New York.
However, officials clarified that there was no specific plot identified to carry out such a disruption, and no arrests have been made at this time.
Sources noted that SIM farms exist across the country, and these systems are often utilized for various purposes, ranging from making anonymous calls and cheap international calls to facilitating marketing calls and spam communications.
Despite the absence of a direct threat, McCool reassured the public that, “These recovered devices no longer pose a threat to the New York tristate area.”
The investigation continues as officials aim to identify those responsible for the network and their true intentions, especially regarding any possible plans to disrupt communications during the assembly of world leaders.
Another anonymous official elaborated on the potential dangers, asserting that such networks could also impact emergency medical services (EMS) and police communications.
He noted, “This network can be used to disable cellphone towers. It can enable ‘denial of service’ attacks, which means, basically, they could block EMS or police from responding to a scene if needed. They can also be used to do anonymous, encrypted communication.”
As the investigation progresses, agents are meticulously analyzing the SIM cards in an effort to trace the origins of the network.
McCool mentioned that the Secret Service initiated this protective intelligence investigation following a rise in telecommunications-related threats directed at senior U.S. government officials earlier this year.
He stated, “Following multiple telecommunications-related imminent threats directed towards senior U.S. government officials this spring, the U.S. Secret Service began a protective intelligence investigation to determine the extent and impact these threats could have on protective operations.”
Due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, the Secret Service has opted not to disclose the names of the officials who were threatened.
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