Introduction
The U.S. Secret Service announced on September 23, 2025, that it had successfully dismantled a significant threat to the cellular network in New York City, just ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. The network, discovered in multiple locations within 35 miles of the United Nations, had the potential to disable cell towers and disrupt cellular communications across the city.
The Discovery and Dismantling of the Network
Investigators found over 300 co-located SIM servers and 100,000 SIM cards, which are capable of crippling telecom systems and carrying out anonymous telephonic attacks. The devices allowed for anonymous, encrypted communications between potential threat actors and criminal enterprises, enabling criminal organizations to operate undetected.
Potential Impact and Investigation
The network had the potential to "essentially shut down the cellular network in New York City," according to U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool. The Secret Service conducted an investigation into the gadgets, with early forensic analysis indicating cellular communications between nation-state threat actors and individuals known to federal law enforcement.
Significance and Implications
The discovery and dismantling of this network represent a significant threat to national security and public safety. The U.S. Secret Service took swift action to prevent potential disruptions to the United Nations General Assembly and protect senior government officials.
Conclusion
The U.S. Secret Service's successful operation highlights the agency's commitment to protecting the nation's capital and preventing threats to public safety. The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.
The Secret Service's actions demonstrate its proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential threats to national security and public safety.