Dark Web Platform ‘Alice with Violence CP’ Raided by Europol

Authorities are investigating 440 clients connected to an online platform used to distribute child sexual abuse material and other cybercrime services. The operation highlights the increasing challenges law enforcement faces in combating illicit activity on the dark web.

The investigation, dubbed “Operation Alice,” focused on the platform’s administrator, a 35-year-old man from China, who authorities say managed over 373,000 fraudulent websites. Europol played a key role in the operation.

The dark web platform, known as “Alice with Violence CP,” traded in images depicting the sexual abuse of children, as well as other cybercrime “services” such as stolen credit card data. Customers paid for access to the content but, in many cases, did not receive it.

Europol estimates the suspect generated approximately 345,000 euros from roughly 10,000 individuals who attempted to purchase the illegal materials.

Police have so far identified 440 users of the platform, and the investigation remains ongoing.

“Operation Alice,” which began in 2021, “sends a clear message to criminals that they have nowhere to hide when the international law enforcement community works hand in hand,” said Europol Director Catherine De Bolla, pledging to locate and hold those responsible accountable.