• A federal report reveals how a hacker working for Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán infiltrated FBI operations during his trial, using surveillance technologies to track agents and intimidate informants. The Justice Department highlights the need for stronger security measures to counter evolving cartel tactics.

MEXICO CITY, MX (TDR) – A newly released federal report reveals how a hacker working for Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán infiltrated FBI operations during the drug lord’s trial, posing a deadly threat to informants and law enforcement. The report, published by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General, outlines the Sinaloa Cartel’s use of advanced surveillance tactics to disrupt the investigation.

Cartel Hacker Targeted FBI Agent Using Surveillance Technologies

In 2018, while El Chapo was on trial in New York for running a criminal enterprise, conspiracy to commit murder, and other charges, the Sinaloa Cartel allegedly hired a cyber expert to infiltrate U.S. law enforcement operations in Mexico. According to the report, the hacker tracked an FBI assistant legal attaché in Mexico City, monitoring their phone calls, surveillance footage, and movements near the U.S. Embassy.

The cartel used this stolen data to intimidate and, in some cases, kill cooperating witnesses and informants, the report states. Legal attachés, who are highly trained FBI agents, serve as liaisons with host country law enforcement. Despite their expertise, they faced significant risks due to the cartel’s aggressive tactics.

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Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, responsible for the deaths of approximately 34,000 people, was sentenced to life in prison in 2019. The report sheds light on just how far the cartel went to influence the outcome of his trial.

Hacker Exploited Surveillance Vulnerabilities

The hacker accessed sensitive information by tapping into Mexico City’s surveillance camera system and tracking who entered and exited the U.S. Embassy. They also intercepted phone data of the FBI agent working the case.

The report, titled “Efforts to Mitigate the Effects of Ubiquitous Technical Surveillance,” highlights how advances in technology have made it easier for criminal organizations to exploit surveillance systems. The Justice Department noted that even less sophisticated criminal enterprises now have the tools to uncover vulnerabilities in global surveillance networks.

The cartel’s infiltration efforts coincided with Guzmán’s 2018 trial in New York, where federal prosecutors presented evidence of his drug trafficking empire. The trial concluded with a conviction on charges including running a criminal enterprise and conspiracy to commit murder.

Department of Justice Calls for Increased Security Measures

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The federal report did not specify the number of informants who were intimidated or killed due to the cartel’s surveillance. However, it emphasized the need for the FBI to bolster its defenses against similar threats. The Justice Department recommended increased training for FBI personnel and the implementation of a strategic plan to address surveillance vulnerabilities.

U.S. Embassy officials in Mexico and the FBI declined to comment on the report, referring inquiries to the State and Justice Departments, which have yet to respond. A representative for Guzmán also did not issue a statement.

What’s Next?

As cartels continue leveraging technology to undermine law enforcement, federal agencies must adapt to mitigate these risks. The revelations highlight urgent issues concerning the safety of informants and the integrity of cross-border investigations.

The report underscores the importance of advancing security measures to combat the evolving tactics of criminal organizations. Share your thoughts and spread awareness.

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