Founded by Adrian Cross in 2008, Open Cell's mission, as stated on the group's official website, was "to lay bare the secrets of the world’s governments and empower its citizens to take back control." The group maintained a proprietary encrypted network and messaging system, and encouraged those with sensitive information to contribute anonymously and join their cause. Due to its actions, many of the group's workers and their families were reportedly subject to threats and prosecution by countries around the world. As of Day 9, they operated in secret from an abandoned restaurant in London, England. (Open-Cell.org, "Day 9: 11:00am-12:00pm")