"Dark web" fraud sites were taken down, and hundreds of people were suspected: Europol

An international law enforcement effort spanning 23 countries has dismantled a fraudulent dark web platform that falsely claimed to offer illegal child abuse material, according to Europol. The operation, known as Operation Alice, focused on identifying both the operator of the platform and its global network of users.

The platform, called “Alice with Violence CP,” was run by a 35-year-old suspect based in China. Investigators revealed that the individual had created an extensive network of more than 373,000 fraudulent websites. These sites were used to lure users by advertising illegal content and other cybercrime-related services, including access to stolen credit card data and backend systems. However, the operation was ultimately a scam—customers paid for these services but received nothing in return.

Authorities estimate that the suspect earned approximately 345,000 euros (around $400,000) by deceiving roughly 10,000 individuals who attempted to purchase the illicit material. So far, investigators have identified around 440 users connected to the platform, and further investigations are ongoing to track down and take action against those involved.

Officials emphasized that the case highlights both the risks and criminality associated with dark web activities. While the platform itself was fraudulent, it targeted individuals seeking highly illegal content, bringing them under the scrutiny of international law enforcement agencies. The operation, which began in 2021, involved close cooperation between multiple countries, demonstrating the growing capability of global agencies to tackle cybercrime across borders.

Catherine De Bolle, director of Europol, said the success of the operation sends a strong warning to criminals operating online. She stressed that coordinated international action makes it increasingly difficult for offenders to hide, adding that authorities are committed to identifying and prosecuting those involved.

The case underscores the expanding reach of law enforcement into the dark web and the increasing use of sophisticated investigative techniques to dismantle criminal networks. It also reflects a broader global effort to combat cyber-enabled crimes and protect vulnerable populations, while holding accountable those who attempt to exploit or engage in illegal activities online.