Secret Service Disrupts Threat to UN with Major SIM Card Seizure

Federal agents have dismantled a significant network of devices in the New York area that posed a serious threat to senior U.S. government officials, according to the U.S. Secret Service. The operation, which took place on September 23, 2025, revealed over 300 SIM card servers and 100,000 SIM cards across multiple locations within a 35-mile radius of New York City. The timing of this disruption coincided with the gathering of world leaders for the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

The Secret Service did not disclose specific details regarding the officials targeted or the nature of the threats. Furthermore, the agency refrained from naming any foreign nations that may have been involved, citing sensitivities surrounding the UN meeting. “The potential for disruption to our country’s telecommunications posed by this network of devices cannot be overstated,” stated Secret Service Director Sean Curran. He highlighted the agency’s commitment to swiftly address any imminent threats to protectees.

Investigations revealed that the seized network had the capability to compromise telecommunications systems, potentially enabling anonymous attacks and the disabling of cell towers. The operation marked the largest seizure of its kind undertaken by the Secret Service, according to Matt McCool, the special agent in charge of the agency’s New York field office. Agents are currently conducting forensic analysis on the seized SIM cards, which may hold critical information.

Initial findings have established connections to at least one foreign nation, along with links to criminals already known to U.S. law enforcement, including cartel members. However, the nature of these connections remains unclear. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains uncertain whether this network is related to previous incidents earlier in the year, in which unknown actors impersonated White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

During the summer, a State Department cable reported that an unknown individual left voice and text messages for several prominent figures, including three foreign ministers, a U.S. governor, and a member of Congress, by creating a fraudulent Signal account posing as Rubio. This incident raised alarms about the potential misuse of technology for impersonation and misinformation.

Internationally, steps are being taken to address the threat posed by SIM farms. In April, the United Kingdom’s Home Office announced a ban on the possession or supply of SIM farms without a legitimate reason, highlighting their role in “smishing” campaigns that deceive individuals by impersonating delivery services or financial institutions.

The swift actions of the U.S. Secret Service underscore the critical importance of safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure, especially during significant global events. As investigations continue, the agency aims to deter potential threats and ensure the safety of officials and citizens alike.