Ukrainian cyber police have successfully thwarted a fraudulent investment scheme orchestrated by scammers based in two call centers located in the Khmelnytskyi region of Ukraine. The primary targets were Ukrainian citizens residing in Canada, with the scammers employing a sophisticated approach to deceive victims.
Operating like a legitimate call center, the scammers mandated polygraph exams and English proficiency tests for their employees, who posed as representatives of reputable cryptocurrency firms. Victims were then duped into installing a purported rewards program on their devices, unwittingly granting the scammers access to their personal computers, crypto wallets, login credentials, passwords, and card account details.
A joint operation conducted by Ukrainian and Canadian authorities led to the disruption of the call centers. The seized assets included computer equipment, mobile phones, SIM cards, cars, and cash. Several operators of the centers were arrested and will face charges under Ukrainian IT law, carrying potential penalties of up to 15 years of imprisonment for unauthorized interference with electronic communication. The investigation is ongoing, as authorities aim to identify additional participants, uncover more victims, and determine the total amount of funds acquired by the scammers. The collaborative efforts between Ukrainian and Canadian authorities demonstrate a commitment to combating cybercrime and ensuring that those involved face legal consequences for their actions. The case highlights the need for international cooperation in addressing cyber threats and protecting individuals from fraudulent activities in the increasingly complex digital landscape.
