Global Crypto Intelligence Sprint Targets Child Sexual Abuse Networks

Chainalysis recently announced Operation Lighthouse, a global crypto intelligence sprint that investigated 29,120 cryptocurrency addresses and digital identifiers. The operation targeted more than 100 distinct child sexual abuse material (CSAM) platforms, forums, and distribution networks across the surface web and dark web.

The National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance hosted the sprint in New York, bringing together investigators from several continents. At least nine law enforcement agencies, over 13 private-sector partners, and specialized nonprofits participated, including Europol, the Australian Federal Police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency.

Operation Lighthouse generated 14,300 investigative leads, surfaced more than 7,700 suspect accounts, and identified CSAM-linked suspects in 125 countries. Private-sector partners also identified 16 registered sex offenders, while two participating companies alone identified at least 150 individuals.