Major Dismantling of Encrypted Messaging Service Matrix
In a significant operation coordinated by Europol and Eurojust, French and Dutch police have successfully dismantled Matrix, an encrypted messaging service utilized by criminal organizations for international drug trafficking, arms trafficking, and money laundering. This operation, which took place on December 3, 2024, involved a collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies from France, Spain, Germany, Lithuania, and the Netherlands.
Matrix was described as a sophisticated communication platform created specifically for criminals, allowing users to communicate securely and invisibly. The service had approximately 8,000 users worldwide, primarily involved in serious criminal activities. The investigation revealed that the platform was technically more complex than previous services like EncroChat and Sky ECC, with over 40 servers located across Europe, mainly in France and Germany.
During the operation, authorities arrested three individuals, including one in Paris and two in Spain, and seized a villa worth 15 million euros, luxury vehicles, 145,000 euros in cash, and 500,000 euros in cryptocurrencies. Additionally, 970 phones equipped with the Matrix service were discovered, along with 2.3 million intercepted messages in 33 languages.
Implications of the Matrix Dismantling
The dismantling of Matrix marks a crucial victory in the ongoing battle against organized crime in Europe. The encrypted messaging service was first identified in connection with the Dutch Mocro Maffia, following the murder of journalist Peter R. de Vries in 2021. This incident prompted extensive investigations that ultimately led to the discovery of the Matrix platform.
The operation highlights the effectiveness of international police collaboration in combating organized crime. Authorities have noted that as soon as one encrypted service is taken down, new ones emerge, indicating a persistent challenge in the fight against criminal networks. Rosa Ana Morán, head of the Special Anti-Drug Prosecutor's Office in Spain, stated that there are around fifty similar systems currently in operation, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
As Matrix is now offline, criminals attempting to access the service will encounter a warning message indicating its dismantling. This operation not only disrupts current criminal activities but also serves as a reminder of the capabilities of law enforcement to monitor and intercept communications in real-time.
