Swede Charged with Financing ISIS Through TikTok and Cryptocurrency
A 24-year-old man in Sweden faces charges for financing ISIS via TikTok and cryptocurrency.
Key Points
- • 24-year-old man charged with serious financing of terrorism.
- • Accused of raising tens of thousands of kronor from July 2022 to March 2024.
- • Funds collected through TikTok, including cryptocurrency, Swedish kronor, and US dollars.
- • Arrested at Arlanda Airport in December 2024, remains in custody.
A 24-year-old man has been charged in Sweden for serious financing of terrorism through the social media platform TikTok, as well as cryptocurrency. According to the Swedish Prosecution Authority, the man is accused of collecting tens of thousands of kronor from July 2022 to March 2024, intended to support the activities of ISIS. He allegedly solicited funds in various currencies, including cryptocurrency, Swedish kronor, and US dollars.
The man's involvement in this scheme was uncovered during an investigation by Säpo, the Swedish Security Service, with assistance from the National Security Unit prosecutors. The accused was arrested at Arlanda Airport in December 2024 and has remained in custody since that time.
"The use of social media platforms for fundraising terror reflects a concerning trend that we are continuously monitoring," stated a spokesperson from Säpo, emphasizing the gravity of the charges.
This case highlights ongoing challenges in combating terrorism financing, particularly as technology evolves to facilitate such illegal activities. The formal charges represent a concerted effort by Swedish authorities to address and curb the financing of extremist groups. As investigations continue, more details may emerge regarding the broader network involved in these activities.