Europol dismantles crypto mixer "AudiA6" – more than 336 million euros laundered in cryptocurrencies

How a crypto mixer works

So-called crypto mixers like "AudiA6" mix cryptocurrencies in order to obscure connections between senders and recipients. Those responsible charge a commission for this. According to Europol, "AudiA6" was advertised on cybercrime forums as a professional service said to be distinguished by anonymity and speed. According to the investigators, more than 336 million euros is said to have flowed through the service between 2022 and 2025 to obscure its origin.

The money came, among other things, from ransomware extortion. The investigators assume that "AudiA6" became a central hub for ransomware actors and cybercriminals to convert stolen digital assets into money without authorities being able to trace the money's trail. In addition, links to 15 investigative proceedings worldwide were found.

Seizures and blocked services

During the operation, according to Europol, cryptocurrency worth almost 700,000 euros was frozen and a further over 86,000 seized. In addition, 25 domains were blocked, the network's sites on the darknet and on the internet were taken offline, and the cybercrime forum "Dark2Web" was blocked. Telegram accounts belonging to the network were also blocked.

Investigations into the service were advanced, among others, by the Polish police. On 15 September 2025, the Polish police arrested a Ukrainian citizen in connection with the case. A search of his electronic devices then yielded information pointing to further individuals.

According to Europol, investigators from the USA, Australia, Canada, France, Switzerland and the United Kingdom were involved in the coordinated operation. The Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) and the State Office of Criminal Investigation of North Rhine-Westphalia (LKA NRW) also took part in the operation.

Reaction from North Rhine-Westphalia

In addition, the US Attorney's Office has brought charges and requested the extradition of the suspects to the USA. This could be followed by further legal steps in the United States.

North Rhine-Westphalia's Interior Minister Herbert Reul (CDU) praised the success of the operation: "Europol ist unter Beteiligung des LKA Nordrhein-Westfalen ein dicker Fisch ins Netz gegangen." At the same time, he warned: "Wer glaubt, ungestört eine Geldwäscheplattform betreiben zu können, der hat keine Ahnung. Früher oder später steht die Polizei vor der Tür - und manchmal auch, weil Sicherheitsbehörden weltweit beteiligt sind."