US Shuts Down Major Dark Web Child Abuse Sites

US federal authorities, via Operation Grayskull, dismantled four major dark web networks distributing child sexual abuse material, leading to at least 18 convictions nationwide. The investigation, launched in 2020 after a spike in site traffic, revealed the platforms hosted millions of files, attracted over 120,000 members, and saw more than 100,000 daily visits. William Spearman, known as 'Boss' and described as a major global purveyor of such material, was apprehended in a high-risk FBI raid in Alabama in 2022, later pleading guilty and receiving a life sentence. Prosecutors highlighted the content's extreme nature, including depictions of infants and severe abuse. FBI Director Kash Patel stated the operation had global impact and sent a clear message that offenders cannot hide behind online anonymity. Officials emphasized the persistent and hidden threat posed by online child exploitation.