On 23/9, the US Secret Service announced the discovery of over 300 SIM box devices and 100,000 SIM cards at five locations within 35 miles of New York City. Agents also found 80 grams of cocaine, illegal weapons, computers, and mobile phones at these locations.

"These devices can facilitate anonymous, encrypted communication between potential threat actors and criminal organizations, enabling them to operate undetected," said Matt McCool, head of the Secret Service's New York office. "This network had the capability to disable cell towers and essentially shut down the mobile network in New York City."

Matt McCool (center) reviews surveillance video at the Secret Service's New York office on 22/9. Photo: AP

Matt McCool (center) reviews surveillance video at the Secret Service's New York office on 22/9. Photo: AP

McCool stated that authorities are investigating whether those who created the network intended to use it to disrupt the United Nations General Assembly high-level debate taking place in New York this week.

An anonymous official revealed that these networks could also be used to disable emergency medical services (EMS) communications, police communications, as well as encrypted communications.

Agents are examining the SIM cards to identify who created the network. "We are reviewing every call, text message, and search history on those SIM cards," the anonymous official added.

McCool explained that the network was discovered after an increase in threats against US officials under Secret Service protection earlier this year. He declined to name the officials who were threatened.

The devices will undergo forensic analysis, and a wide-ranging investigation is underway.

Huyen Le (According to AFP, NBC News)