The cyber police have dismantled a criminal group responsible for running illegal investment platforms. Among the 11 people detained, “there are citizens of a foreign country, including former representatives of the judiciary who held key roles in the criminal organization.”
PLN 75 million defrauded from 1,500 people – such was the scale of the crime committed by the organized criminal group broken up by officers from the Central Bureau for Combating Cybercrime (CBZC). In total, 11 people were arrested, including “citizens of a foreign country, among them former representatives of the judiciary who played key roles in the criminal organization.” Eight of the detainees remain in custody.
“The investigation covered individuals using false identities and employing technology to take remote control of victims’ computers and phones,” reads the statement issued by the cyber police.
Organized theft of millions
The group operated illegal investment platforms that simulated transactions on the FOREX market. They reached Polish investors through call centers located outside the country and entities that mimicked legitimate business operations.
Using advanced social engineering techniques, including websites with user account functions and profit growth visualizations, the perpetrators extracted substantial sums of money. Victims were manipulated over the phone by consultants into taking out loans and credits for supposedly lucrative and profitable investments.
Fraudsters invested in luxury goods
As part of the execution of a European Investigation Order, searches and arrests were conducted. During the investigation, assets worth a total of PLN 5 million were secured, including cryptocurrencies, cars, and valuables. The seized cryptocurrency holdings may additionally contain up to USD 5 million in funds.
Police officials emphasize that the case is ongoing and further arrests are planned. The investigation will continue in close cooperation with law enforcement agencies from other countries.
The police are appealing to all individuals who have been defrauded by perpetrators using at least one of the following five investment platforms – Agricole Trade, Partner Groupe, Pariba Group, Global Maxis, or Riva Financial Systems – to contact them at the email address: [email protected]