A massive international cybercrime operation has just shaken the dark web to its core — and the message is loud and clear: the net is tightening.
Earlier this month, Europol led a powerful global takedown targeting one of the most disturbing and deceptive cybercrime networks in recent years. The operation, known as Operation Alice, resulted in the shutdown of more than 373,000 dark web sites, the seizure of over 100 servers, and the identification of hundreds of individuals linked to illegal online activities.
A Seven-Year Web of Deception
At the center of this global crackdown was a cybercriminal network reportedly run by a Chinese individual since 2019. Operating under the name “Alice with Violence CP,” the network claimed to provide illegal content and cybercrime services through a vast ecosystem of dark web platforms.
Users were lured in with promises of large “packages” of illicit material, priced between $20 and $250. These packages were marketed as containing massive amounts of data — ranging from a few gigabytes to several terabytes.
But here’s the twist: the entire operation was a scam.
Despite attracting around 10,000 customers and generating roughly $400,000 in payments, users never received what they paid for. Still, the intent behind the purchases has put many of those customers under serious investigation.
Inside Operation Alice
The investigation began quietly in 2021, with Europol tracking the network’s activities over several years. By March 9, 2026, authorities officially launched Operation Alice, initially focusing on identifying and tracking the operator behind the scheme.
As the investigation expanded, law enforcement agencies uncovered a wider network of individuals attempting to engage with the illegal platform. A total of 440 users were identified and are now under investigation for attempting to access prohibited content.
According to Europol, more than 100 of these individuals remain active targets as the operation continues.
Global Forces Join the Fight
This wasn’t a solo mission — it was a full-scale international collaboration. A total of 23 law enforcement agencies from across the globe took part in the operation. Key participants included US Homeland Security Investigations and National Crime Agency, alongside authorities from countries such as Australia, France, Germany, Spain, and Ukraine.
Together, they seized critical infrastructure used by the network, including servers, computers, mobile devices, and digital storage systems.
The Bigger Picture
This operation is more than just numbers — it’s a clear signal that international law enforcement is stepping up its game against cybercrime and exploitation networks.
Taking down over 373,000 websites isn’t just a win — it’s a statement. The dark web may promise anonymity, but operations like this prove that no one is completely out of reach.
And as investigations continue, more names could surface.
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