Federal authorities in Boston have seized two website domains and two cryptocurrency accounts allegedly used for the illegal importation of machine gun conversion devices (MCDs) from China. MCDs, often referred to as “switches” or “sears,” are parts that convert semiautomatic pistols into fully automatic machineguns. The National Firearms Act prohibits both possession and importation of these items from certain countries, including China.
According to court documents, the investigation began in 2023 and continued through 2025, targeting multiple websites, businesses, and individuals involved in selling or importing these prohibited devices. Undercover purchases confirmed that the seized domains were being used to sell MCDs. Investigators also identified cryptocurrency accounts used by vendors to process sales.
Authorities allege that the illegal items were smuggled inside air cargo shipments from China to government-controlled mailboxes in the United States. These packages were combined with other goods and not properly declared with U.S. Customs.
The websites are also accused of trafficking counterfeit goods and unlawfully using the Glock, Inc. trademark by offering so-called “Glock” switches for sale. Authorities clarified that Glock, Inc. has never manufactured such switches.
Officials established probable cause to seize both the internet domains and funds within related cryptocurrency wallets due to their use in connection with this scheme. Visitors attempting to access the seized websites will now be redirected to a notice indicating government action.
The operation led by federal authorities in Massachusetts has resulted so far in approximately 360 domain seizures along with over 3,000 MCDs, 282 firearms, 124 silencers, more than 12,000 rounds of ammunition confiscated, as well as about 125 investigative referrals.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley stated: “United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in New England made the announcement.” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Annapurna Balakrishna of the Asset Recovery Unit and Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit obtained seizure warrants for this case.