Lighthouse Operation Cracks Down on Crypto-Enabled CSAM Networks
A massive operation to disrupt cryptocurrency-enabled child sexual abuse material (CSAM) networks has yielded significant results. Operation Lighthouse, led by Chainalysis and hosted in New York, generated 14,300 investigative leads across 11 exchanges and payment services.
The operation's scope extended beyond consumers and vendors to include marketplace operators and administrators within CSAM networks. Investigators examined 29,120 cryptocurrency addresses and digital identifiers during the operation.
Chainalysis reported that more than 100 distinct CSAM platforms, forums, and distribution networks were targeted across both the surface web and dark web. The investigation also identified 7,700+ suspect accounts in 125 countries, including 16 registered sex offenders.