US Seizes $560,000 in Crypto Donations Intended for Hamas
The US Justice Department has announced that it has seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. The seizure is part of a larger effort to disrupt the group's financing networks.
Hamas began using virtual currency fundraising as early as 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, or military wing, and solicited donations on Telegram channels and direct online platforms. FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting donations via cryptocurrency last year and alerted law enforcement to a suspicious post asking for contributions to an email address associated with Hamas.
The Justice Department said it had taken control of website domains and communication platforms used by Hamas for fundraising and recruitment, and obtained information about thousands of people who had contacted the group with intentions to donate. US Attorney Jeanine Pirro vowed that her office would continue to use its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks.