Italian and Albanian authorities have busted a scam aimed at luring victims with promises of low-risk investments in cryptocurrencies. In an operation coordinated by Eurojust, investigators from both countries searched a dozen sites and seized property and computer equipment.
The fraudsters contacted investors from a call center in Tirana, Albania.
Law enforcement agencies in Italy and Albania have busted an online fraud scheme offering fake investment opportunities related to cryptocurrencies. The investigation was conducted with the support of Eurojust, the EU agency responsible for judicial cooperation in Europe.
Authorities participating in the joint operation seized assets worth €3 million (nearly $3.2 million) from the criminal group that organized the scam. Total losses resulting from its activities were estimated at €15 million, Eurojust detailed in a press release.
The perpetrators operated a call center in the Albanian capital Tirana, from which they contacted victims by phone and over the Internet, using virtual phone numbers and VPNs. They convinced customers to open accounts on a dedicated website and make transfers.
The scammers earned their trust by allowing them to get a quick profit for a small initial investment. After visiting seemingly reputable trading platforms, victims were contacted by “brokers“who offered them investments in crypto-currencies”zero risk“.
Members of the fraud scheme also attempted to access the victims’ online…
