Secret Service seizes SIM-server network in NYC capable of disabling cell service
The U.S. Secret Service announced the seizure of a sophisticated network of SIM servers in the New York City area. According to reporting, the operation uncovered over 300 SIM servers and roughly 100,000 SIM cards across multiple sites. The network reportedly had capabilities including jamming cell towers, conducting distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and enabling encrypted communications. An early analysis suggested the network could send up to 30 million anonymous text messages per minute.
Key details
- Date disclosed: Reported ahead of the UN General Assembly
- Scope: 300+ SIM servers; ~100,000 SIM cards; devices concentrated within a ~35-mile radius
- Capabilities: Tower jamming, DDoS, encrypted comms; possible eavesdropping
- Quotes: “This network had the potential to disable cell phone towers and essentially shut down the cellular network in New York City,” — Special Agent Matt McCool
- Investigation status: Open and active; no arrests announced
Security experts quoted in reporting suggested only a handful of nations have the capacity to deploy such an operation, and some analysts called the activity consistent with espionage. The Secret Service also noted communications between at least one foreign country and “individuals that are known to federal law enforcement,” though officials declined to be specific.
Photos released by the agency show racks of SIM- and antenna-laden servers. The seizure came as world leaders gathered for the UN General Assembly, and the agency is responsible for security at the event.
Sources: Engadget reporting (clean link): Engadget
Note: At the time of publishing this post no official standalone press release from the Secret Service was found in open reporting; the investigation remains ongoing.
If you have tips or further verified reporting, please contact the appropriate authorities. Comments welcome below — what do you think the motive might have been?