US Seizes $560k in Crypto Donations Meant for Hamas

The US Justice Department has seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. The funds were meant to support the militant group's military wing, and were solicited through Telegram channels and direct online fundraising.

Hamas officials began testing virtual currency fundraising in early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades. They bragged that the currency would be untraceable, and provided instructions for anonymous donations on their websites. However, an investigative break was made last year when a confidential source alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post asking for contributions to an email address associated with Hamas.

The FBI has also taken control of website domains and communication platforms used for fundraising and recruitment, and obtained information about thousands of people who had contacted Hamas with the goal of giving money. US Attorney Jeanine Pirro warned that 'your networks are not secure, your crypto is vulnerable, and we will not stop until your ability to wage war is defeated.'

FBI Assistant Director Brett Leatherman stated that the bureau would continue to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks.