As Blockchain technology advances, Brazil’s CyberGAECO confronts the darker aspects that emerge alongside it

Rio’s Public Prosecutor’s Office (MPRJ) has formed CyberGAECO, a dedicated team within the Grupo de Atuação Especial de Combate ao Crime Organizado (GAECO), to tackle the increasing incidence of cybercrimes and offenses involving cryptocurrencies. Established through Resolution GPGJ nº 2.740 on September 15, 2025, this group is tasked with dismantling organized cybercriminal operations that utilize blockchain, dark web resources, and digital anonymity technologies. Prosecutor General Antonio José Campos Moreira highlighted that the move aligns with international enforcement practices, as cybercrimes expand alongside society’s growing use of digital technologies Rio Prosecutors Launch CyberGAECO To Fight Crypto Crime [ 1 ].

The responsibilities of CyberGAECO encompass intelligence gathering, legal proceedings, asset recovery, and cooperation with both domestic and global organizations to tackle money laundering, ransomware, phishing schemes, and the use of cryptocurrencies to fund organized crime. A primary goal is to break up dark web networks and track illegal crypto transfers, with an emphasis on adopting advanced tech tools and building collaborations with public sectors and private entities MP do Rio vai rastrear criptomoedas com nova divisão específica [ 2 ]. Notably, the MPRJ started using a crypto-tracing solution in August 2025, reflecting a proactive shift toward stopping digital crimes before they occur CyberGAECO: MP cria núcleo com atribuição de rastrear … [ 3 ].

This initiative demonstrates Brazil’s increasing awareness of blockchain’s dual potential for both financial progress and criminal exploitation. According to the resolution, advances in technology that allow for anonymity and untraceable exchanges are key contributors to the rise in cybercrime MP do Rio lança divisão ESPECIALIZADA para RASTREAR … [ 4 ]. CyberGAECO’s duties go further than just cryptocurrencies, tackling wider

threats, yet its strong emphasis on crimes powered by crypto highlights the risks facing the sector. The unit’s ability to work with private companies, including exchanges, also brings regulatory oversight of the crypto market into focus.

Globally, law enforcement is increasingly relying on specialized cyber divisions to fight financial crime linked to digital assets. The launch of CyberGAECO places Rio’s prosecutors at the forefront of this international movement, and is in step with global efforts to improve cross-border collaboration in addressing crypto-related offenses Rio Prosecutors Launch CyberGAECO To Fight Crypto Crime [ 1 ]. The group’s concentration on recovering assets and shaping institutional strategies further demonstrates its role in strengthening legal mechanisms to prevent online crime MP do Rio vai rastrear criptomoedas com nova divisão específica [ 2 ].

Although cryptocurrency trading remains lawful in Brazil, the MPRJ clarified that anyone involved in cyberattacks, ransomware, or phishing through digital currencies will come under increased scrutiny. Their statement emphasizes that ordinary crypto transactions will not be targeted, but criminal uses—such as laundering or funding illegal operations—will be prioritized MP do Rio lança divisão ESPECIALIZADA para RASTREAR … [ 4 ]. This stance highlights that the team’s aim is to curb unlawful actions rather than impede legitimate financial developments.

The foundation of CyberGAECO comes amid broader regulatory changes in Brazil’s digital asset sector, including the 2022 digital asset legislation and recent central bank guidance on stablecoins. Experts point out that the unit’s effectiveness will hinge on its ability to use real-time analytics and work with international partners, as cybercriminals often operate across national borders Rio Prosecutors Launch CyberGAECO To Fight Crypto Crime [ 1 ]. This effort also aligns with Brazil’s broader push for stronger digital governance as global demand for blockchain solutions continues to grow.