The T3 Financial Crime Unit, a joint operation by Tether, TRON, and TRM Labs, has frozen more than $450 million in illicit cryptocurrency since its launch in September 2024. In 2025, intercepted illicit proceeds increased by 43.9% compared to the prior year. The unit operates across 23 jurisdictions, including the US, Spain, Germany, Brazil, and the UK, and has analyzed millions of transactions to combat exchange hacks, exploits, DPRK-linked activity, terrorist financing, money laundering, and violent crime. Notable actions include a Spanish bust recovering $26.4 million from a Madrid-based laundering ring and support for Brazil's Operation Lusocoin, which froze over R$3 billion in crypto, including 4.3 million USDT. T3 has achieved fund freezes within 24 hours during account takeovers and violent crime emergencies. The unit has expanded cooperation with police forces in the US, Spain, Germany, Netherlands, and Bulgaria, and has been recognized by the FATF as a leading public-private model. Cases now include wrench attacks, such as home invasions and kidnappings targeting crypto holders. TRM Labs estimates illicit crypto flows reached a record $158 billion, emphasizing the need for real-time identification. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino stated the $450 million milestone is just the beginning.

Key facts

• T3 froze over $450M in illicit crypto since Sept 2024.
• 2025 intercepts increased 43.9% year-over-year.
• Operates in 23 jurisdictions including US, Spain, Germany.
• Achieved 24-hour fund freezes in emergencies.
• FATF cited T3 as a leading public-private enforcement model.

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