Chainalysis flagged more than 7,700 suspect accounts during Operation Lighthouse, a global investigation into cryptocurrency activity linked to child sexual abuse material. The operation generated 14,300 investigative leads across 125 countries, the blockchain analytics firm said Tuesday.
Investigators examined 29,120 cryptocurrency addresses and digital identifiers, tracing activity across more than 100 platforms and networks.
Operation Lighthouse Targets Crypto Networks
The multi-day operation was conducted in New York and involved more than nine law enforcement agencies, along with more than 13 private-sector and nonprofit partners.
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Participants examined consumers, vendors, marketplace operators and administrators linked to suspected networks. Investigators shared leads with 11 cryptocurrency exchanges and payment services for further review.
Private-sector information also helped identify 16 registered sex offenders among the flagged accounts. Chainalysis cautioned that the figures represent investigative leads and do not indicate confirmed convictions.
Blockchain Data Supports Investigations
The operation shows how blockchain records can provide leads for broader criminal investigations. Authorities previously used Bitcoin transaction data to help dismantle the Welcome to Video network in 2019.
Separately, Chainalysis reported more than $30 million in successful crypto thefts involving “wrench attacks” during the first half of 2026. These attacks involve physical threats or coercion to force crypto holders to surrender their assets.
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