NYC Secret Service Bust: Massive SIM Card Network Targeting Cell Service!

The United States Secret Service recently dismantled a massive clandestine network in New York City, seizing over 300 co-located SIM servers and 100,000 SIM cards. This network, spanning multiple sites within 35 miles of the UN General Assembly, posed a significant threat to the city's cellular infrastructure.

<img src="https://qtxasset.com/quartz/qcloud4/styles/thumbnail_200xauto/s3/media/image/20250922_equipment_01.jpg?VersionId=UwFLpgS91nUw7F13WwSTz_h.x7vlBrZt&itok=x8PwJUay" alt="Equipment used in the clandestine network">

Potential for Widespread Disruption

Authorities revealed the network's capability to execute various telecommunications attacks, including disabling cell towers, facilitating denial-of-service attacks, and enabling encrypted communication for criminal activities. Early analysis suggests the network aimed to connect nation-state actors with individuals known to law enforcement.

<img src="https://qtxasset.com/quartz/qcloud4/styles/thumbnail_200xauto/s3/media/image/20250922_equipment_03_0.jpg?VersionId=GL5Mju4dqw8rYxyI_1Lwb22k5DCOfRyd&itok=5ya8JqdH" alt="Equipment recovered in the investigation">

MobileX's Involvement

MobileX CEO Peter Adderton confirmed that some of their SIM cards were among those recovered. He stated that while their platform's ease of use and cost-effectiveness are attractive to legitimate customers, they can also unintentionally attract malicious actors. The company pledged full cooperation with ongoing investigations.

This situation highlights the potential vulnerability of cellular networks to sophisticated attacks and underscores the importance of ongoing security measures.