US authorities dismantle network capable of threatening UN General Assembly
US authorities announced on Tuesday the dismantling of a vast network of more than 300 servers and 100,000 SIM cards capable of paralyzing telecommunications in New York City, just days before the start of the United Nations General Assembly.
According to a statement from the US Secret Service, the network had the potential not only to enable anonymous phone calls containing threats but also to conduct a range of cyberattacks against telecommunications infrastructure. This included disabling mobile towers, carrying out denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and facilitating encrypted communications between potentially hostile actors and criminal organizations.
The dismantling operation took place in a radius of about 50 kilometers around the UN headquarters in Manhattan. Images released by federal agents showed dozens of SIM cards linked to electronic devices.
“Given the timing, location, and potential for widespread disruption of New York’s communications, the agency acted swiftly to dismantle this network,” the statement added. While the investigation is ongoing, early analysis suggests connections between the devices and state-linked actors considered a threat to national security, as well as individuals already known to law enforcement.
The discovery comes as President Donald Trump was scheduled to deliver a speech at the UN during the high-level week, where world leaders gather annually to address pressing global issues.
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