The U.S. Secret Service, traditionally recognized for its role in safeguarding American leaders, has quietly repositioned itself as a formidable player in tackling cryptocurrency crime. Through its Global Investigative Operations Center (GIOC), the agency has seized nearly $400 million in digital assets over the last decade, according to a recent Bloomberg report. This growing role comes as digital fraud continues to escalate, with the FBI reporting a staggering $9.3 billion loss linked to crypto scams in 2024 alone.
The Crypto Crime Surge
Digital fraud has become an alarming trend in the U.S., with a significant chunk attributed to the burgeoning crypto space. Investment scams, fake platforms, and extortion schemes have particularly preyed on older individuals, who reportedly lost almost $2.8 billion last year. The Secret Service’s GIOC has been pivotal in combating these crimes, employing a mix of open-source tools, subpoenas, and blockchain analysis to trace illicit funds. This mirrors efforts seen globally, such as the Spanish Police dismantling a $540 million ‘Crypto Investment Fraud Ring’.
Kali Smith, the attorney spearheading the unit, emphasizes the importance of global collaboration. “We’re not just chasing criminals; we’re building a network of informed allies,” she notes, highlighting their recent training efforts in Bermuda. The workshop there, aimed at jurisdictions with lenient oversight, underscores the vulnerabilities of crypto-friendly regions.
Partnerships and Recoveries
The Secret Service isn’t working in isolation. It has teamed up with industry heavyweights like Coinbase and Tether to facilitate substantial recoveries. Notably, $225 million in USDT linked to romance-investment scams was reclaimed with their assistance. Patrick Freaney, head of the New York field office, encapsulates the agency’s longstanding mission: “We’ve been following the money for 160 years.” This collaboration is part of a broader trend, as seen in Spanish authorities arresting five people in a $541M crypto fraud case.
This collaboration between government and private sectors is crucial, especially as the digital landscape grows more complex. Experts argue that such partnerships are vital in keeping pace with the ever-evolving tactics of cybercriminals. According to a cybersecurity analyst, “The synergy between these entities is not just beneficial—it’s necessary.”
Looking Ahead
As the Secret Service ramps up its crypto crime-fighting capabilities, questions linger about the sustainability of this trend. Can the agency continue to outpace cybercriminals who are becoming increasingly sophisticated? There’s also the matter of international cooperation—will other nations step up their game, or will they remain weak links in the global enforcement chain?
For now, the Secret Service’s proactive stance offers some reassurance to those invested in the crypto ecosystem. Yet, as digital assets become more ingrained in everyday transactions, the stakes—and the challenges—will undoubtedly rise.
The evolving role of the Secret Service in the crypto world is a testament to the shifting landscape of crime and finance. As we move deeper into 2025, the agency’s ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial in safeguarding both investors and the integrity of the digital marketplace.
Source
This article is based on: U.S. Secret Service Quietly Becomes a Leading Crypto Cop as Digital Fraud Soars: Bloomberg
Further Reading
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Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
