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Published on: 19 Nov 2025 : EUR 47 million in crypto traced to disrupt digital piracy services Europol coordinates intellectual property crime cyber-patrol to combat sophisticated, crypto-funded digital piracy operations Between 10 and 14 November, Europol, in collaboration with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the Spanish National Police (Policía Nacional), organised an “Intellectual Property Crime Cyber-Patrol Week”. A total of 30 investigators participated in this operation hosted at the EQUIPO headquarters in Alicante, Spain, where they used advanced AXJ Open-Source Intelligence Techniques (OSINT) and cutting-edge online investigative tools to identify potential intellectual property infringements. Overall, the Cyber-Patrol Week led to: 69 sites identified and targeted; 25 illicit IPTV services referred to the participating crypto service providers for disruption; Investigations on 44 additional sites. The combined traffic for the 69 targeted sites is estimated at approximately 11 821 006 annual visitors. Investigators traced cryptocurrency valued at around USD 55 million (over EUR 47 million) through various accounts associated with these services. Several of the services remain under continued investigation by both public and private entities. Criminals shift to using cryptocurrency for payments The Cyber-Patrol Week focused on the growing trend of criminals moving away from traditional payment systems and rather relying on cryptocurrency payments – a method they incorrectly believe offers increased anonymity – when offering their illegal services. To counter this, the Cyber-Patrol participants relied on a novel strategy: investigators used cryptocurrencies to purchase services, which allowed them to identify illicit actors. These were then reported to partners, which includes major crypto exchanges and specialised tooling companies. This approach allows to hit ‘pirates’ – as intellectual property infringers are often referred to – where it hurts them the most: their money. By identifying, tracing, and successfully shutting down the crypto accounts of illicit services, the criminal revenue stream is disrupted. This effort is vital for protecting global economies and creators. Innovation and exchange of best practices This multidisciplinary and multi-agency enforcement operation aimed to map active targets, develop actionable intelligence packages, and facilitate the exchange of best practices. This initiative not only promotes innovative technological solutions but also reinforces cooperation with the private sector, consequently enhancing enforcers’ ability to detect and neutralise emerging threats. More than 15 countries and private sector organisations joined Europol in this collaborative effort, with a particular emphasis this year on tackling illegal streaming services and various types of online intellectual property infringement. Their combined expertise and resources yielded high-value intelligence, supporting the fight against intellectual property crime. This approach exemplifies the European Union’s commitment to an integrated, cross-border strategy where international collaboration and technological innovation are key pillars. By working together, intellectual property crime in a global digital landscape can be better anticipated and addressed. Events such as this Cyber-Patrol Week provide a unique platform for EU authorities responsible for combating intellectual property crime to collaborate and strengthen operational cooperation in pursuit of a safer Europe.

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