Manhattan DA launches new cybercrime bureau to combat high-tech crimes

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Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is stepping up the fight against cybercrime with a new high-tech team. The Cyber Crime Bureau, created to investigate and prosecute crimes involving computers and the dark web, will tackle some of today’s most sophisticated offenses, such as cryptocurrency theft, hacking and online scams. The DA’s office shared the announcement on social media, with DA Bragg explaining the need for the bureau due to the rise of cases involving digital evidence. “Our ability to conduct blockchain analysis, perform forensic analysis on mobile devices, and much more is unique for a local prosecutor’s office, and critical to many of our investigations and prosecutions,” Bragg stated. The bureau is already handling several cases. In one instance, investigators used blockchain analysis to track down an individual accused of using Bitcoin to access illegal content on the dark web. In another case, the bureau helped recover $14,000 worth of stolen cryptocurrency. In addition to cryptocurrency crimes, the Cyber Crime Bureau will also investigate online scams, cyberattacks and drug trafficking rings that operate through hidden websites. The team employs advanced tools to trace digital transactions and assist victims in recovering stolen funds. With the increasing threat of cybercrime, the Manhattan DA’s office expects this new unit to play a key role in protecting New Yorkers from high-tech criminals. "