Summary: Four distributors of the encrypted communications service Sky ECC were arrested in Spain and the Netherlands for facilitating criminal activity. Their operations reportedly generated millions in profits, with extensive investigations revealing the service’s use in serious crimes. The arrests were part of a larger investigation that began in 2019, resulting in significant seizures of cash, cryptocurrencies, and luxury items.
Affected: Sky ECC and associated criminal networks
Keypoints :
- Two key distributors arrested in Spain generated over €13.5 million in profits.
- The service operated on a subscription basis costing €600 for three months, used primarily by criminals.
- Europol had previously cracked Sky ECC’s encryption, revealing 70,000 users involved in criminal activities.
- The Dutch suspects managed approximately 25% of Sky ECC subscriptions, bringing in €6.8 million in profit.
- Simultaneous raids resulted in significant seizures, including cash, vehicles, and cryptocurrencies valued at over €1.4 million.