Chainalysis Operation Lighthouse Cracks Down on Crypto-Linked CSAM Networks
Operation Lighthouse, a collaborative effort by Chainalysis and law enforcement agencies, aimed to disrupt crypto-enabled child sexual abuse material (CSAM) networks. Conducted in New York at the National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance (NCFTA), the operation generated 14,300 investigative leads and identified 7,700 suspect accounts across 125 countries.
The multi-day initiative investigated 29,120 cryptocurrency addresses linked to over 100 CSAM platforms and forums. Chainalysis' blockchain analytics tools allowed investigators to trace on-chain transaction flows, linking suspect wallets to real-world offenders. While the prevalence of CSAM-related activity is a small fraction of overall crypto use, it has reportedly grown in recent years.
The operation's success highlights the importance of public-private collaboration and the role of blockchain transparency in combating child exploitation. Chainalysis plans to refine and replicate this model, addressing other illicit typologies alongside CSAM-related activity. The results of Operation Lighthouse are expected to extend into 2027 as law enforcement agencies pursue arrests and legal proceedings.