International Crackdown Dismantles Criminal Messaging Service 'Matrix'
Amsterdam, Monday, 9 December 2024.
Dutch and French authorities, supported by Europol, dismantled the encrypted Matrix messaging service used by criminals, intercepting 2.3 million messages and arresting key suspects.
Major International Operation
On December 3, 2024, a coordinated operation led by Dutch and French authorities successfully shut down the encrypted messaging platform Matrix, which had become a significant tool for criminal networks [1][2][3]. The operation involved law enforcement agencies from multiple countries, including Germany, Spain, Italy, and Lithuania, working together under Europol’s coordination [1][3]. The investigation resulted in the interception of 2.3 million encrypted messages across 33 languages [3][4], providing crucial intelligence about various criminal activities.
Discovery and Technical Sophistication
Matrix first came to authorities’ attention in 2021 when it was discovered on the smartphone of a criminal convicted in the murder case of Dutch journalist Peter de Vries [1]. The platform operated through approximately 40 servers, primarily located in France and Germany [1][4]. According to Europol, Matrix offered a more technically complex infrastructure than its predecessors, featuring advanced encryption systems [1]. Access to the service was strictly controlled through an invitation-only system, with specialized smartphones costing between €1,300 and €1,600 [1].
Arrests and Asset Seizures
The operation led to three significant arrests, including a Lithuanian citizen suspected of leading the criminal network, who was apprehended in France [1][4]. Law enforcement agencies conducted raids across multiple countries, resulting in substantial seizures including €145,000 in cash, €500,000 in cryptocurrency, four vehicles, and over 970 phones [1]. Additionally, authorities seized a villa in Spain valued at €15 million [1].
Impact on Criminal Networks
This takedown represents the latest in a series of successful operations against encrypted criminal communication platforms, following the dismantling of services like Ghost, Exclu, and EncroChat [4]. As noted by Jake Moore, Global Cybersecurity Advisor at ESET, ‘Criminals flourish on hidden and secure communication channels, so for an encrypted service used for illicit means to be shut down is both significant and impressive’ [2]. Europol has emphasized that this operation demonstrates the continued effectiveness of international law enforcement cooperation in combating organized crime [3][4].