The Ukrainian Cyber Police, working alongside Czech law enforcement officials, have arrested several members of a cybercrime ring that allegedly defrauded European Union citizens of $4.33 million through phishing campaigns. The group reportedly set up over 100 phishing websites to obtain bank card data and banking account credentials from foreign citizens, using the data to appropriate money from their accounts. The group also set up two call centers, in Vinnytsia and Lviv, to trick customers into making purchases.
The websites offered heavily discounted products to attract visitors to place orders, but instead the operators behind the websites collected financial information provided by visitors while making fake purchases.
More than 1,000 victims from multiple countries, including the Czech Republic, Poland, France, Spain, and Portugal, have been identified, and the police estimate the total amount of damages to be over $4.3 million. Police officers conducted over 30 searches of the accused’s homes, cars, and call center locations, and seized mobile phones, SIM cards, and computer equipment used in illegal activities.
Two of the arrested individuals are believed to be the masterminds behind the operation, with ten others detained in other European Union territories. Criminal proceedings have been initiated against the perpetrators under Part 4 of Art. 190 (Fraud) and Part 1 of Art. 255 (Creation, management of a criminal community or criminal organization, as well as participation in it) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which may result in a maximum sentence of up to 12 years in prison.
This recent arrest highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the need for international cooperation in the fight against such activities. The Cyber Police of Ukraine and Czech law enforcement officials worked together to apprehend the suspects and bring them to justice.
Phishing scams have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, making it difficult for victims to spot the fraudulent websites and emails. This case serves as a reminder for individuals to be vigilant when sharing personal and financial information online, and to be wary of websites offering unrealistic discounts or deals.
