FBI seizes over $560,000 in crypto meant to fund Hamas, disrupting a years-long fundraising network

The United States Department of Justice announced on Tuesday that the FBI has seized more than $560,000 in cryptocurrency intended for Hamas. This action is part of a broader operation aimed at disrupting the militant group’s online fundraising and recruitment networks.

As part of the crackdown, authorities have taken control of various website domains and communication platforms that were utilized by the group to solicit financial support and recruit new members. Investigators have also successfully obtained information regarding thousands of individuals who had contacted the organization with the intent of providing financial contributions.

According to FBI affidavits filed in connection with the seizures, Hamas began utilizing cryptocurrency for fundraising purposes around early 2019. These efforts were primarily conducted through the Qassam Brigades, which serves as the group’s military wing.

The group reportedly promoted the use of virtual currency as a method to conduct transactions that would be difficult for authorities to trace. Hamas solicited these donations through its Telegram channel and other online platforms, where websites linked to the effort provided specific instructions on how to make anonymous contributions.

In a statement regarding the operation, the US attorney for the District of Columbia emphasized that the initiative is intended to dismantle the group's ability to utilize digital platforms and cryptocurrency to finance its operations. Officials stated that the operation serves as a warning that these networks are not secure and that efforts to disrupt the group's financing will continue.