US Seizes 350 Domains in Crackdown on Chinese Gun Conversion Kits
The US Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts seized over 350 domains allegedly used by Chinese outfits to sell kits that convert semiautomatic pistols into fully automatic guns. The domains were used to sell illegal switches and silencers, falsely labeled as innocuous items, shipped to the US.
Hot Take:
Apparently, Chinese entrepreneurs are taking “click and mortar” to a whole new level with their e-commerce gun shops. Just add to cart and boom—not literally, we hope.
Key Points:
- The US Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts seized over 350 domains used by Chinese sellers to distribute gun conversion kits and silencers.
- These devices are illegal under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
- Authorities started their crackdown in August last year, using undercover operations.
- Orders were placed via chat apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, and items were mislabeled during shipment.
- Over 700 conversion devices, 87 suppressors, and various firearms were seized.
Undercover Ops: Not Just for Hollywood
Authorities in Massachusetts deserve an Oscar for their undercover drama, kicking off their operations last August. They were buying these “hot commodities” like it was Black Friday, confirming the authenticity of the kits that convert pistols into fully automatic weapons. Orders were placed using WhatsApp and Telegram, which means your grandma might not be the only one using these apps to get things done.
From China with Boom
These kits weren’t your regular Amazon Prime orders. Instead of being labeled as “Instant Death Kits,” they were cunningly disguised as necklaces, toys, and other harmless items. It’s almost like a twisted version of a Kinder Surprise Egg, but with a lot more firepower. Some of the items were even counterfeit, like the “Glock” switches, despite Glock never making such devices. Talk about false advertising!
GoDaddy and the Mystery of the Seized Domains
Playing Sherlock Holmes, the prosecutors subpoenaed GoDaddy for domain subscriber information. Turns out, many of these domains were purchased by the same entity. So, if you’re thinking of starting an illegal e-commerce site, you might want to diversify your domain registrar. Just saying.
Cyber Sleuths to the Rescue
Michael J Krol, the special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England, gave a shoutout to his cyber team. Their digital detective work is keeping these illegal switches and silencers out of criminal hands. Krol might not have a cape, but his team’s actions are pretty heroic.
And the Oscar for Best Seizure Goes to…
So far, the investigations have led to the seizure of over 700 conversion devices, 87 illegal suppressors, 59 handguns, and 36 long guns. The websites trafficking these items now greet visitors with a digital “We’ve Been Seized” sign. It’s like a pop-up ad, but for justice.
DIY Machine Guns: Not a Home Project
Criminals have been exploiting modern technology to convert regular handguns into machine guns. The US Department of Justice even urged the 3D printing industry to take a stand against DIY machine gun conversion devices. Because the last thing we need is a home improvement project that’s more lethal than a misfired nail gun.