How Terrorists Used Amazon, PayPal For Planning Terror Attacks In India? FATF Report Says…

Terrorists used e-commerce platforms like Amazon and PayPal to execute terror attacks against India. Multiple terror organisations misused e-commerce platforms to purchase items and even for terror financing, revealed global terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in its report on Tuesday.

The organisation in its report cited terrorist attacks like Pulwama terror attack, which killed nearly 40 CRPF personnel, and the 2022 Gokarnath Temple. The report expressed grave concerns about the misuse of e-commerce platforms and online payment services for funding terrorism.

In its report titled "Comprehensive Update on Terrorist Financing Risks," FATF detailed the February 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing. This attack resulted in the deaths of 40 CRPF personnel and was orchestrated by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Nineteen individuals were charged under India's Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, including seven foreign nationals. Investigations uncovered various assets linked to this attack.

Use of Amazon For Purchasing Items

Referring to the Pulwama Terror attack in 2019, the report stated, "In February 2019, a suicide bombing targeted a convoy of Indian Security forces, resulting in the deaths of forty soldiers. India's authorities concluded that the attack was orchestrated by Jaish-I-Mohammed (JiM). Investigations revealed the cross-border movement of a large quantity of explosives into India. Notably, a key component of the improvised explosive device used in the attack- aluminum powder-was procured through the EPOM Amazon. This material was used to enhance the impact of the blast. As a result of the investigation, 19 individuals were charged under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, including sections related to TF. Among those charged were seven foreign nationals, including the suicide bomber."

Gorakhnath Temple Attack And PayPal Link

The 2022 Gorakhnath Temple attack was another case highlighted by FATF. A lone individual influenced by Islamic State ideology attacked security personnel. Financial investigations revealed he transferred over Rs 6.7 lakh to foreign ISIL supporters using PayPal, masking transactions through international third-party services and VPNs. He also received foreign funds amounting to Rs 10,323. His bank account was used to pay for VPN services, leading PayPal to suspend his account due to suspicious activities.

According to FATF, terrorists are increasingly using e-commerce platforms for procuring operational supplies like chemicals, equipment, weapons, and even 3D-printing materials. In the Pulwama case, aluminum powder sourced from Amazon enhanced the bomb's destructive impact.

Terror Financing Via E-Commerce Platforms

Terrorists are also raising funds by selling goods via e-commerce platforms. These items could be low-value or niche products that are easier to disguise. FATF explained a trade-based money laundering model where an accomplice buys items through e-commerce platforms and ships them abroad for resale to fund terrorist operations.

Online payment systems have seen significant growth over the past decade and are now commonly exploited by terrorists. Their appeal lies in low cost, speed, and relative anonymity, often facilitated through fake accounts or pseudonyms. Compared to wire transfers, these platforms offer lower traceability and transparency.

A concerning finding in the FATF report is continued state sponsorship of terrorism. Some governments provide direct financial support, logistical aid, material assistance, and training to terrorist organisations. In India's context, authorities have accused Pakistan of offering safe havens and funding designated terrorists.