U.S. Agencies Join Forces to Launch Darknet Marketplace and Digital Currency Crimes Task Force in Arizona
In a concerted effort to combat crypto-related criminal activities, five federal enforcement agencies have recently established the Darknet Marketplace and Digital Currency Crimes Task Force in Arizona.
This interagency group will focus on investigating the utilization of cryptocurrencies and the dark web by criminal gangs operating within the state, engaging in crimes such as child exploitation, personal data theft, scams, money laundering, and drug trafficking.
The task force comprises several prominent agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Arizona, the Office for U.S. Attorneys, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Postal Inspection Service. Representatives from these agencies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to formally establish the unit.
These agencies have already been collaborating for nearly six years, primarily in identifying high-profile drug trafficking cases. With the formation of the task force, their collaboration will be further strengthened, allowing for increased cooperation, pooled resources, and targeted disruption of criminal organizations utilizing cryptocurrencies, the dark web, and other emerging technologies.
By combining their expertise and resources, the Darknet Marketplace and Digital Currency Crimes Task Force aims to tackle the growing challenges posed by crypto-enabled crimes, leveraging advanced investigative techniques to protect individuals and the financial system from illicit activities.
