
The 404 Media Podcast Inside the Biggest Sting Operation Ever (with Michael Bobbitt)
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Dec 1, 2025 Michael Bobbitt, a former FBI official who was pivotal in Operation Trojan Shield, shares his thrilling insights into the largest sting operation ever conducted. He reveals how encrypted communications were exploited to uncover vast criminal networks and massive drug shipments. Michael discusses the complexities of working with international partners, including Europol, and managing safety while executing covert strategies. Their conversation also covers the significant implications of this operation on trust in encrypted platforms and organized crime tactics.
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FBI Took Over An Encrypted Phone Network
- The FBI accepted an offer to run an encrypted-phone service (Anom) rather than backdooring an existing provider.
- Michael Bobbitt describes how the FBI funded and operated the platform to collect criminal messages.
Criminal Networks Globalized The Platform
- Organized crime used Anom to communicate internationally, forcing the platform from Australia into Europe.
- Bobbitt was the FBI liaison in The Hague coordinating that intelligence with Dutch partners.
Tactical Coordination To Protect The Operation
- FBI San Diego called and warned of imminent shipments or threats, and Bobbitt relayed precise tactical guidance to Dutch units.
- He coordinated what to reveal to suspects to avoid tipping that Anom was compromised.




