Operation Passionflower Blooms: Cybercrime Messaging Platform MATRIX Wilted by Europol Bust
Operation Passionflower, a large-scale international effort, has unplugged MATRIX, an encrypted messaging app favored by cybercriminals. The operation stretched across Europe, with authorities intercepting millions of messages. Users who opted for MATRIX’s anonymity without criminal intentions can request exemption from investigations. MATRIX’s downfall mirrors the fate of similar services like EncroChat and Sky ECC.
Hot Take:
Just when cybercriminals thought they could enjoy their own secret garden of encrypted villainy, law enforcement decided to plant a little operation called Passionflower right smack in the middle. Now, MATRIX users are having a Matrix-style awakening, except instead of dodging bullets, they’re dodging subpoenas. Who knew illegal activities could be so… unsecure?
Key Points:
- Operation Passionflower shut down MATRIX, a platform used by cybercriminals, not to be confused with the legal Matrix protocol.
- The operation was international, involving Europol, Eurojust, and authorities from various European countries.
- Police intercepted over 2.3 million messages in 33 languages during the investigation.
- MATRIX users paid between $1350 and $1700 for access to the service via Google Pixel devices.
- Raids resulted in the arrest of five suspects and the seizure of servers, phones, cash, and cryptocurrency.