Author Joseph discusses his new book DARK WIRE, revealing the FBI's use of an encrypted messaging app for wiretapping. The podcast explores the evolution of criminal communication, the FBI-run NAMM system, dark web criminal activities, and the underground data trade.
The FBI operated Anom, an encrypted messaging app, to gather intelligence on global crime networks.
Criminals adopted sophisticated encrypted phones despite high costs for perceived security benefits and brand appeal.
Deep dives
The Story of Anom - From Secure App to FBI Sting Operation
Anom, believed to be a secure encrypted messaging app, was actually run by the FBI as a sting operation. It attracted top-tier criminals who used it for activities like planning murders and drug trafficking, believing their communications were safe. The FBI gained insights into global organized crime, revealing detailed criminal activities and connections worldwide.
Evolution of Criminal Communication Technology
The progression of criminal communication technology moved from payphones to Blackberry, then to customized encrypted smartphones controlled by criminals. The encrypted phone industry emerged post-2009, offering security features like physical alterations and server placement outside law enforcement jurisdictions. Criminals embraced these sophisticated technologies, despite the high costs, driven by perceived security benefits and brand appeal.
Impact of FBI's Operation on Criminal Behavior and Future Surveillance
After the FBI's dismantling of Anom, criminals lost trust in encrypted phones, shifting to mainstream tools like Signal. However, the FBI intends to replicate such operations, potentially compromising privacy for law-abiding citizens. Criminals faced widespread arrests post-Anom, exposing corruption links and large-scale criminal activities. The aftermath marked a significant disruption in criminal communication methods, reshaping the landscape of law enforcement surveillance.
A something extra for our listeners this week. Joseph went on an episode of Whale Hunting to talk about his new book DARK WIRE, in which the FBI secretly ran its own encrypted messaging app to wiretap the world. Whale Hunting is a great podcast that has journalists go behind-the-scenes on their own stories. It is absolutely worth listening to if you don't already!