Justice Department Cracks Down on Hamas Crypto Fundraising Operation

The United States Justice Department has seized more than $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas, the militant group's military wing. The operation, announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, targeted fundraising and recruitment efforts that used virtual currency and online platforms such as Telegram.

Hamas began testing virtual currency fundraising around early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, soliciting donations on Telegram and using direct online fundraising methods. The group boasted that the currency would be untraceable and provided instructions for making anonymous donations.

FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting donations to the Qassam Brigades via virtual currency last year and alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post asking for contributions to an email address associated with Hamas. Brett Leatherman, FBI assistant director in charge of its cyber division, said the bureau would continue to use its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks.