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SCARS Institute West Africa Project with GISF CyberLaw Academy Series for Criminal Justice Professionals at Ghana UENR – 2024

SCARS Institute West Africa Project in Ghana – August 2024

With the help of GISF CyberLaw Academy Series for Criminal Justice Professionals at Ghana UENR

Primary Category: Advocacy and Policy

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from Modern Ghana

About This Article

The SCARS Institute’s West Africa Project, in collaboration with the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF), hosted a two-day CyberLaw Academy event in Sunyani to strengthen cybersecurity and justice for victims of cybercrime, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

The event brought together law enforcement, state prosecutors, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for combating cybercrime and equipping professionals with the skills needed for effective prosecution.

The event highlighted the importance of digital evidence and collaborative efforts, empowering participants with knowledge on applying Ghana’s Cybersecurity and Electronic Transactions Acts in court. The event emphasized justice for victims and building a resilient digital future in Ghana.

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2024-09-18T15:37:47-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMINOLOGY, GHANA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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SCARS Is Changing The Way Ghana West Africa Thinks About Scams Fraud & Cybercrime – April 2024

SCARS is Changing the way Ghana West Africa thinks about Scams Fraud & Cybercrime

SCARS Director Dr. Tim McGuinness was presenting to the Ghana Police Service Academy on April 15th, 2024

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation

About This Article

The ePolice Academy 2024 International Edition, a collaborative initiative by the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation, recently concluded with resounding success in Sunyani, Ghana.

The event, held at Sheila’s Executive Hotel, gathered cybersecurity experts and law enforcement officers to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in cyber forensic investigations and enhance online safety. Key speakers like Dr. Edward Danso Ansong, Dr. Isaac Tweneboah-Koduah, and Dr. Tim McGuinness of SCARS provided invaluable insights into AI’s role in cybersecurity and the impact of cybercrime on victims.

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2024-04-20T02:22:09-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, GHANA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Southeast Asia Scam Gangs – SCARS Editorial – 2024

Southeast Asia Scam Gangs

A SCARS Editorial

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The rise of Southeast Asian Scam Gangs presents a global threat, defrauding countless victims and perpetuating criminal activities. While governments like the U.K. and China are taking action, U.S. attention remains diverted.

However, Washington’s involvement is crucial. These transnational criminal organizations wield substantial economic power, necessitating enhanced law enforcement support.

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2024-03-17T19:10:26-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, SOUTHEAST ASIA, USA|
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Synthetic Pornography – A Growing Danger To The World – A SCARS Editorial 2023

Synthetic Pornography – A Growing Danger To The World

A SCARS Editorial

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Photo Credit: Mark Pohlmann

Synthetic Pornography Is Revolutionizing What People Of Particular Tastes Can Have Now, All Through Generative AI

Synthetic porn, also known as deepfake porn, is a type of manipulated media that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to create non-consensual pornography. It typically involves superimposing the face of a non-consenting person onto the body of someone else in a pornographic video, but it can be completely synthetic and generated by AI from nothing but a text description of what is desired.

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2023-11-25T19:23:10-05:00Uncategorized|
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A Proposal from SCARS to Reduce Bank Wire/Money Transfer Fraud

A Proposal from SCARS to Reduce Bank Wire/Money Transfer Fraud

By SCARS Editorial Team –  Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

A Proposal To Reduce App Fraud In The Banking Industry

SCARS introduces a new proposal for the banking industry to help stop Wire Transfer Fraud/Scams (Authorized Push Payment Fraud) at the point of contact.

Almost all deterrents and education programs have failed to stop victims from sending money to criminals. Something more is needed. In the UK the bank employees call the local police to talk with victims and this has proven very effective, but that will not work in the United States. This proposal, we believe, addresses all the issues in a process already compliant with U.S. law.

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2023-06-27T05:26:50-04:00Uncategorized|
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BREAKING NEWS: FinCEN Assesses Record $1.3 Billion Penalty against TD Bank – 2024

BREAKING NEWS: FinCEN Assesses Record $1.3 Billion Penalty against TD Bank

Punishing a U.S. Bank for Massive Violations of Money Laundering Practices

Primary Category: NEWS

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions: FinCEN

About This Article

The $1.3 billion penalty assessed by FinCEN against TD Bank for massive violations of anti-money laundering (AML) practices marks a pivotal moment in U.S. banking safety and regulatory compliance.

TD Bank’s failure to implement an effective AML program enabled widespread criminal activity, including narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, and terrorist financing, to penetrate the financial system. The historic settlement underscores the critical importance of robust AML controls and serves as a warning to other financial institutions about the severe consequences of neglecting these safeguards.

Moving forward, U.S. banks must prioritize AML compliance and develop strong internal oversight to protect the financial system from illicit activity.

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2024-10-10T17:46:43-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber – 2024 [VIDEOS] – UPDATED: She Pleaded Guilty and is Going to Prison

A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber [UPDATED]

Ann Mayers, a Scam Victim lost her life savings and borrowed over $80,000 which she still owed. Out of Desperation, she decided to become a Bank Robber

However, the story is not as simple as it seems due to the trauma and cognitive impairment victims suffer from

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions WLWT5 News and other sources

Originally published Apr 29, 2024 – Updated October 6, 2024

About This Article

Ann Mayers, a 74-year-old Ohio woman, turned to bank robbery in desperation after falling victim to an online scam.

Police responded to a robbery at AurGroup Credit Union, where Mayers demanded cash at gunpoint. She was later found at her home and confessed to the crime, admitting recent financial losses to an unidentified online scammer. Mayers faces charges of aggravated robbery and tampering with evidence, highlighting the tragic consequences of online scams.

Such scams often leave victims traumatized, affecting their cognitive function and decision-making abilities. Victims may experience cognitive dissonance, struggling to reconcile reality with their desire to believe in the legitimacy of the scam.

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2024-10-06T05:29:51-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • VICTIM'S STORY, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Tim McGuinness PhD, USA|
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61% of Nigeria’s Scammer’s Parents Know Their Children Scam and Are Ok With It – 2024

61% of Nigeria’s Scammer’s Parents Know Their Children Scam and Are Ok With It

This Demonstrates the Deep Level of Social and Moral Corruption in Nigeria

Primary Category: Criminology

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from PM News

About This Article

The discovery that 61% of Nigeria’s scammer’s parents are aware that their children are scammers and their involvement in scams and cybercrime, specifically “Yahoo Yahoo” (internet fraud), exposes a troubling issue of familial complicity.

Many parents may even benefit financially from these illegal activities, raising ethical and legal concerns about their role as accessories after the fact, as outlined in Section 10 of Nigeria’s Criminal Code.

This complicity perpetuates cybercrime, damaging Nigeria’s reputation on a global scale.

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2024-09-22T21:24:53-04:00• CRIMINOLOGY, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, ARTICLE, NIGERIA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang – 2024

INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang

Singapore & Timor Leste Police Make a Major Bust

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang

Singapore authorities make record recovery thanks to cooperation with Timor Leste through INTERPOL

A global stop-payment mechanism developed by INTERPOL has helped Singapore authorities make their largest-ever recovery of funds defrauded in a business email compromise scam.

On 23 July 2024, a commodity firm based in Singapore filed a police report stating that they had fallen victim to a business email compromise scam, in which a scammer obtains access to or impersonates a business email account to deceive employees into transferring money to their bank account.

On 15 July, the firm received an email from a supplier requesting that a pending payment be sent to a new bank account based in Timor Leste. The email, however, came from a fraudulent account spelled slightly differently from the supplier’s official email address.

Unaware, the firm transferred USD 42.3 million to the fake supplier on 19 July, only discovering the crime four days later when the genuine supplier said it had not been paid.

On receipt of the police report, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) swiftly requested assistance from authorities in Timor Leste through INTERPOL’s Global Rapid Intervention of Payments (I-GRIP) mechanism.

I-GRIP uses the global police organization’s 196-country police network Read More …

2024-09-08T10:36:24-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, INTERPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, SINGAPORE, TIMOR LESTE|
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Replacing the UK’s Action Fraud City of London Police for Inaction Against Scams – 2024

Replacing the UK’s Action Fraud for Inaction Against Scams

Reviewing the Progress Made in the UK to Replace the City of London Police’s Action Fraud

Primary Category with link to search

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Alexander Martin, The Record

Replacement for the City of London’s Action Fraud, UK’s Scam, Fraud, and Cybercrime Reporting Service, delayed again until 2025

According to the Record – being reprinted in the public interest – source link above

Action Fraud

The launch date for the repeatedly delayed replacement service for Action Fraud, the much-criticized reporting center for fraud and financially motivated cybercrime in Britain, has again been pushed back, a senior police officer has confirmed to Recorded Future News.

The likely date will be sometime in the spring of 2025, according to Nik Adams, the temporary assistant commissioner at the City of London Police.

In its current form Action Fraud, which is run by the City of London Police, has been described as “not fit for purpose” by the House of Commons Justice Committee amid a surge in the levels of that crime affecting people across the country.

The Public Accounts Committee stated it was “seriously concerned that the failures of Action Fraud in supporting victims of fraud has earned it the nickname ‘Inaction Fraud,’” and echoed the Justice Committee’s findings that the levels of fraud were being driven by shortcomings across the whole of the criminal justice system.

A replacement service aiming to provide more intelligence Read More …

2024-09-08T10:36:58-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, GUEST AUTHORS, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, UK|
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Massive Increase in Losses with Bitcoin ATM Scams – 2024

Massive Increase in Losses with Bitcoin ATM Scams

New FTC Analysis Shows Crypto ATM Scams Increased Nearly 1,000% to Over $110 Million in 2023

Primary Category: News & Analysis

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

About This Article

New data from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reveals a dramatic increase in losses due to Bitcoin ATM scams, with consumer reports showing nearly a tenfold rise since 2020, reaching over $110 million in 2023.

The first half of 2024 alone saw losses exceed $65 million, with older adults particularly vulnerable, being three times more likely to report losses than younger individuals.

Scammers commonly use Bitcoin ATMs in schemes involving government impersonation, business impersonation, and tech support scams, urging victims to deposit cash into these machines under false pretenses. This alarming trend underscores the need for increased awareness and caution when dealing with unexpected financial requests involving Bitcoin ATMs.

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2024-09-03T14:57:44-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, U.S. Federal Trade Commission, USA|
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Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading – 2024 [VIDEO]

Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading

The Stark Reality of One of the World’s Deadliest Crime Syndicates!

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions Translated from Deutsche Welle
•  Post main image source: BBC – copyright acknowledged

About This Article

The Black Axe is one of the world’s most dangerous criminal organizations, with roots in Nigeria but an extensive global reach. Much of its wealth is derived from internet scams and financial fraud, often involving romance scams where victims, usually women, are deceived into sending large sums of money.

The group’s structure is complex and loosely organized, making it difficult for law enforcement to dismantle. However, recent efforts by Interpol, including Operation Jackal III, have led to significant arrests and the freezing of bank accounts, highlighting the need for international cooperation in combating such criminal networks.

Read More …

2024-09-01T02:36:09-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINOLOGY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, Additional Authors, ARTICLE, NIGERIA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, VIDEO / AUDIO|
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United Nations: Member States Finalize a New Global Cybercrime Convention – August 8 2024

United Nations: Member States Finalize a New Global Cybercrime Convention – August 8 2024

After three years of work, the committee established by the UN General Assembly to negotiate a new convention on cybercrime agreed today on a draft convention text.

Primary Category: Government / Regulatory

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United Nations

About This Article

The United Nations has finalized a draft of a new global cybercrime convention, marking a significant milestone after three years of negotiations by a committee established by the UN General Assembly.

Expected to be adopted later this year, this convention will become the first globally binding legal instrument on cybercrime, addressing the rapidly growing threats in cyberspace. The convention represents the first multilateral anti-crime treaty in over two decades and has been developed with the input of various stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and the private sector.

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2024-08-10T10:35:07-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, United Nations, WORLDWIDE|
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UNODC: Southeast Asian Cyberfraud Organizations Deploying New Technology – 2024

UNODC: Southeast Asian Cyberfraud Organizations Deploying New Technology

United Nations Issues Warning About Expanding Organized Crime

Primary Category: Organized Crime

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime

About This Article

Industrial-scale cyberfraud operations in Southeast Asia are evolving rapidly due to technological advancements and the increasing professionalization of transnational criminal networks. These operations, often linked to sophisticated underground banking and money laundering organizations, are outpacing governmental efforts to contain them.

A recent UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) meeting highlighted the urgency of addressing this threat, which includes hundreds of scam centers and thousands of trafficked individuals working in illicit industries. Countries like the Philippines have banned certain gambling sectors to curb these activities. Despite efforts to dismantle cyber-enabled fraud operations, organized crime groups are diversifying and moving into more remote areas, utilizing deepfakes and malware.

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2024-08-06T13:12:17-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, SOUTHEAST ASIA, United Nations|
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The U.S. FTC Goes After TikTok For Violating Children’s Privacy – 2024

The U.S. FTC Goes After TikTok For Violating Children’s Privacy

TikTok has Repeatedly Disregarded U.S. Law on Protecting Children!

Primary Category with link to search

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  U.S. FTC – Federal Trade Commission

About This Article

The FTC and DOJ have filed a lawsuit against TikTok and its parent company ByteDance, accusing them of violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and a 2019 FTC consent order.

The lawsuit alleges that TikTok failed to notify and obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from children under 13.

Despite knowing millions of children used the platform, TikTok allegedly continued to collect and use their data unlawfully, including through “age unknown” accounts bypassing age gates.

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2024-08-06T08:01:08-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, • FEATURED ARTICLE, • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, NEWS, U.S. Federal Trade Commission, USA|
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UNODC Report: Casinos and Cryptocurrency – 2024

UNODC Report: Casinos and Cryptocurrency

Understanding the Complexities of Large Scale Organized Crime in Southeast Asia

Primary Category: Organized Crime

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  UNODC Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific

About This Article

A new report has revealed that casinos, junkets, and cryptocurrency exchanges are major drivers of money laundering, underground banking, and cyberfraud in East and Southeast Asia. The study, titled “Casinos, Money Laundering, Underground Banking, and Transnational Organized Crime in East and Southeast Asia: A Hidden, Accelerating Threat,” highlights the crucial role of underregulated online casinos and crypto exchanges in facilitating transnational organized crime.

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2024-08-03T02:37:47-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, ARTICLE, United Nations|
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NO FAKES ACT – Proposed New U.S. Law To Go After Deep Fake Producers & Creators – 2024

NO FAKES ACT – Proposed New U.S. Law To Go After Deep Fake Producers & Creators

A Proposed New Law that can have a Significant Impact of Deep Fake Scams and Impersonations

Primary Category: Government / Regulatory

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The NO FAKES Act, introduced in July 2024 by Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis, aims to protect individuals’ voices and likenesses from unauthorized AI-generated replicas.

The bill has positive aspects, such as safeguarding personal rights, holding creators and platforms accountable, creating a uniform national standard, and considering First Amendment protections.

However, it also faces challenges, including potential overreach, enforcement difficulties, impact on smaller entities, and broader implications for Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

The bipartisan support highlights its importance, though careful implementation is necessary to balance creativity and personal rights.

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2024-08-02T03:24:43-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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Countries Are Now Using Organized Crime/Criminals To Do Bad Things! 2024

Countries Are Now Using Criminals To Do Bad Things!

Many Countries Such As India and Iran Are Using Criminals to get Bad Things Done!

Primary Category: Editorial

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Some countries, such as Iran and India, are increasingly using criminal organizations like BLACK AXE to conduct covert operations, including foreign interference, targeted killings, and other illegal activities.

This strategy allows these countries to deny involvement and avoid international repercussions. The use of criminals for such purposes dates back to historical practices, like privateering under Queen Elizabeth I, but has evolved to include modern-day cybercriminals and gangs.

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2024-07-25T19:46:49-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, 2024, CHINA (PRC), EDITORIAL / COMMENTARY, INDIA, IRAN|
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North Korean Cyberespionage Inside KnowBe4 Company – A Massive Wake Up Call For Cybersecurity Industry- 2024

North Korean Cyberespionage Inside KnowBe4 Company – A Massive Wake-Up Call For Cybersecurity Industry

How a North Korean Agent Infiltrated KnowBe4

Primary Category: Cybersecurity

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions KnowBe4 and other sources

About This Article

KnowBe4 recently uncovered that a newly hired remote software engineer, who passed both interview and background checks, was actually a North Korean agent.

The discovery was made after suspicious activity linked to a company-issued MacBook raised red flags. The company’s IT and security teams acted quickly, restricting access and launching an investigation. They found that the individual had loaded malware onto the device and used a single-board computer to manipulate data.

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2024-07-25T17:38:56-04:00• CYBERWAR & CYBERWARFARE, • CYBERSECURITY, 2024, Additional Authors, NEWS, NORTH KOREA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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Meta Combating Financial Sextortion Scams From Nigeria – 2024

Meta is Combating Financial Sextortion Scams from Nigeria

A Statement from Meta (Facebook/Instagram/WhatsApp)

Primary Category: News

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by Meta Corporation

About This Article

Financial sextortion is a borderless crime increasingly perpetrated by cybercriminals known as Yahoo Boys, primarily operating out of Nigeria. Meta recently removed around 63,000 Instagram accounts and 7,200 Facebook assets linked to these scammers. This included a coordinated network of 2,500 Instagram accounts and various Facebook Groups that provided guidance on conducting scams.

Meta’s efforts, supported by enhanced detection systems and cooperation with law enforcement, aim to prevent these crimes and protect potential victims, including teens and minors. The company also supports training programs for law enforcement to better handle such crimes.

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2024-07-25T08:15:45-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, Additional Authors, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL Operation Jackal III Arrests More Than 300 Scammers – 2024

INTERPOL Operation Jackal III Arrests More Than 300 Scammers

Major Interpol Led Operation Targets ‘Black Axe’ and Other Organized Crime Groups

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

About This Article

A global law enforcement operation, Operation Jackal III, targeted West African organized crime groups, including Black Axe, resulting in 300 arrests and the seizure of USD 3 million in assets.

Running from April 10 to July 3, 2024, across 21 countries, the operation focused on combating online financial fraud and dismantling criminal networks. Over 400 suspects were identified, and over 720 bank accounts were blocked.

The operation highlighted the critical need for international collaboration in addressing the alarming rise in financial fraud stemming from West Africa.

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2024-07-16T12:21:23-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, INTERPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, WORLDWIDE|
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Protecting Yourself After the AT&T Data Breach – 2024

Protecting Yourself After the AT&T Data Breach

Affecting Nearly Every AT&T Customer!

Primary Category: Cybersecurity News

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

In 2024, AT&T experienced a significant data breach that affected approximately 73 million customers, exposing sensitive information like names, addresses, and Social Security Numbers.

Initially revealed in 2021 and confirmed in March 2024, the breach led to widespread concern. Customers should immediately update passwords, enable two-factor authentication, monitor financial accounts, check credit reports, use identity theft protection, be wary of phishing attempts, freeze credit, update device security, educate themselves on cyber threats, and stay informed on legal recourse.

Taking these steps can help mitigate risks and protect personal information.

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2024-07-15T14:19:06-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CYBERSECURITY, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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INTERPOL Operation First Light With 3,950 Arrests – 2024

INTERPOL Operation First Light With 3,950 Arrests

USD 257 million in assets seized in Operation First Light, with 3,950 arrests and the identification of 14,643 suspects spanning 61 countries.

Primary Category: Crimes and Criminals

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

About This Article

Operation First Light 2024, a global police initiative spanning 61 countries, has struck a significant blow to online scam networks by freezing 6,745 bank accounts and seizing assets worth USD $257 million.

The operation, which targeted various scams including phishing, investment fraud, and romance scams, resulted in 3,950 arrests and the identification of 14,643 additional suspects. Authorities intercepted USD $135 million in regular currency and USD $2 million in cryptocurrency, alongside other high-value assets.

The operation, coordinated by INTERPOL and funded by China’s Ministry of Public Security, underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational organized crime and protecting victims worldwide.

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2024-06-27T19:32:06-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, INTERPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, WORLDWIDE|
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Evolved Apes NFT Scam – 2024

Evolved Apes NFT Scam

The Truth Behind Yet Another Internet Fake Bubble

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Evolved Apes NFT: The Former Jewel of NFTs – Scammers Face Up to 40 Years in Prison for $2.7M Fraud. In a significant crackdown on NFT-related fraud, three British nationals involved in the “Evolved Apes” NFT scam have been charged in the United States with wire fraud and money laundering. The suspects, Mohamed-Amin Atcha, Mohamed Rilaz Waleedh, and Daood Hassan, are accused of orchestrating a scheme that defrauded investors out of $2.7 million.

If convicted, they face up to 40 years in prison. This case underscores the vulnerabilities within the burgeoning NFT market and highlights the need for regulatory oversight to protect investors from similar fraudulent schemes. NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, represent ownership of unique digital assets, and their initial hype promised a revolutionary change in digital ownership and the creator economy.

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2024-06-25T04:57:12-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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Amazon & Global Cyber Alliance Launches CyberFlex to Help Young Adults Avoid Scams and Cybercrime – 2024

Amazon & Global Cyber Alliance Launches CyberFlex to Help Young Adults Avoid Scams and Cybercrime

Creating Better Tools to Help Teens & Young Adults to Stay Safe Online

Primary Category: Scam Victim Advocacy

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) and Amazon announced the launch of CyberFlex.org, an innovative website designed to help 18- to 25-year-olds avoid scams and cybercrimes.

CyberFlex.org offers targeted information, free tools, interactive guides, and text alerts to prevent, mitigate, report, and recover from scams and other cyber risks.

By raising awareness and shifting attitudes about online threats, CyberFlex.org provides young adults with practical steps to protect themselves and share their experiences.

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2024-06-13T13:05:54-04:00• ADVOCACY / POLICY, • FEATURED ARTICLE, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Thought Patterns That Sustain Depression – An Overview for Scam Victims – 2024

Thought Patterns That Sustain Depression – An Overview for Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims Understand Depression and the Need For Help!

Primary Category: Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Victims of relationship scams often experience profound emotional and psychological impacts, including depression, due to feelings of betrayal and diminished self-worth. Addressing the cognitive patterns that sustain depression is crucial for their recovery.

Almost all scam victims suffer from trauma, and while resilience varies, every victim should be evaluated by a licensed mental health professional to prevent worsening symptoms. There is no shame in seeking help; it is a courageous step towards healing. Mental health professionals provide a safe, non-judgmental space for victims to process their experiences, rebuild self-esteem, and develop coping strategies. Early intervention can mitigate long-term effects, helping victims regain control over their lives and well-being.

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2024-06-10T22:35:43-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • SCAM VICTIM HEALTH, 2024, ARTICLE, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|
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5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK – 2024

5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK

Fraud on a Massive Factory Scale

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by Daily Mail

About This Article

Five Bulgarian fraudsters who defrauded the UK’s Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) of £54 million have been jailed for over 25 years. The gang hijacked 6,000 identities to claim Universal Credit, using children’s names from Bulgaria.

They operated three ‘benefit factories’ in London, producing fake tenancy agreements, payslips, and letters to trick the DWP. The group flaunted their wealth on social media, with photos showing them at Antonia’s Foods supermarket in Wood Green. Ringleader Galina Nikolova, 38, was sentenced to eight years for her key role in the scam, which Judge David Aaronberg described as being conducted on an ‘industrial scale’. Stoyan Stoyanov, 27, received four years, while Gyunesh Ali, 33, was jailed for seven years and three months. Tsvetka Todorova, 52, and Patritsia Paneva, 26, received three years each.

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2024-06-03T10:26:37-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, Additional Authors, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, UK|
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Sadako Toyoda: Another Innocent Scam Victim Money Mule Has Been Arrested In Japan – 2024

Sadako Toyoda 豊田禎: Another Innocent Scam Victim Money Mule Has Been Arrested In Japan

Another Innocent Money Mule Will Go to Prison

Primary Category: Scam Victim’s Story

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  日テレNEWS NNN

About This Article

Sadako Toyoda, a 54-year-old Japanese woman, was manipulated into becoming a money mule by a scammer she met online, leading to her arrest. The scammer, posing as a doctor in a war zone, convinced Toyoda to impersonate a diplomat and collect money from another victim.

On May 29, Toyoda attempted to defraud a woman in Sagamihara City of 1 million yen. Despite being a victim of psychological manipulation, Toyoda faces prison. This case underscores the extreme lengths to which scam victims can be coerced, highlighting the severe impact of such manipulative tactics.

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2024-06-03T08:45:20-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, Additional Authors, JAPAN, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol – 2024

Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Europol

About This Article

Europol, alongside Italian and Portuguese authorities, spearheaded a major crackdown on money mule service providers laundering over EUR 10 million for a criminal organization behind cryptocurrency scams.

Supported by law enforcement from Austria, France, Germany, Romania, Spain, and Switzerland, the operation involved raids in France, Italy, and Romania, resulting in 11 detentions, including the scheme’s mastermind, and the seizure of electronic devices, jewelry, and cryptocurrencies.

The scam targeted millionaires through sophisticated rip-deal scams, utilizing cryptocurrencies. Europol and Eurojust provided critical support, facilitating information exchange and forensic assistance, while Europol’s #DontBeaMule campaign aims to prevent money mule activities across the EU.

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2024-06-02T22:07:53-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, EUROPE, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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U.S. Government Bans Woman Money Mule From Helping Scammers Anymore – 2024

U.S. Government Bans Woman Money Mule From Helping Scammers Anymore

In a First of Its Kind Decision, the U.S. Court Orders Money Mule to Stop Helping Scammers! This was Required Because She Would Not Stop!

Primary Category: Scam Victim’s Story

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United States Attorney’s Office, Department of Justice

About This Article

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Federal Government has barred Holly Freidamarie Locke, a 70-year-old Michigan woman, from participating in any further online romance scams. Locke, initially a victim herself, was deceived into acting as a “money mule,” transmitting funds for scammers. Despite police warnings and a signed cease and desist order, she continued facilitating scams.

U.S. District Judge Paul D. Borman approved a consent decree preventing Locke from aiding scammers. This decision, the first of its kind in Michigan, is part of a broader DOJ effort to combat international fraud rings exploiting U.S. citizens.

Locke’s case highlights the manipulation tactics used by scammers and the crucial role of money mules in these schemes. By cutting off this flow of money, the decree aims to protect potential victims and disrupt the operations of fraud networks. Locke did not admit liability in the decree.

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2024-06-02T05:09:46-04:00• VICTIM'S STORY, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI – 2024

Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards.

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Federal Bureau of Investigation

About This Article

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards. Charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, the duo allegedly manipulated the market by misrepresenting low-to-mid grade cards as high-grade, authenticated by a reputable grading company, causing victims to overpay and resulting in over $2 million in fraudulent sales.

The scheme, which spanned from 2022 to May 2024, involved selling cards with falsified grades through online marketplaces and in-person venues. Curcio and Bondarchuk used fake identities to conceal their involvement, even after victims confronted them.

The case highlights the FBI’s commitment to combating fraud and protecting consumers in the collectibles market.

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2024-06-01T06:52:08-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, U.S. Department of Justice, USA|
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MasterCard opens European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium – 2024

Mastercard opens European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium

This new Centre will better prepare Europe to Face the Challenges of Cybercrimes and Cyberwarfare

Primary Category: Cybersecurity

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by MasterCard

About This Article

Mastercard has opened its European Cyber Resilience Centre (ECRC) at its European Headquarters in Belgium, highlighting its commitment to combating cyber threats and enhancing resilience in the region. The state-of-the-art centre will improve defenses against cyber threats, expedite response times, and foster collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The ECRC brings together partners from across Europe, including national cyber intelligence centres, law enforcement, and industry bodies. The facility features a Fusion Centre and a Digital Forensics Lab, essential for effective incident response. This initiative reinforces Mastercard’s role in securing the digital ecosystem and protecting consumer and business transactions.

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2024-05-31T03:18:18-04:00• CYBERSECURITY, • CYBERWAR & CYBERWARFARE, 2024, Additional Authors, EUROPE, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Mariko Takeuchi – Romance Scam Victim Became An Unwitting Drug Mule – 2024

Mariko Takeuchi – Romance Scam Victim Became An Unwitting Drug Mule

An Example of how Online Relationships can get someone arrested!

Primary Category: Victim’s Story

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Yahoo Japan and other sources

About This Article

Mariko Takeuchi, the first Japanese national sentenced to death for drug trafficking in Malaysia, had her death sentence commuted to 30 years in prison on May 29, 2024, following judicial reforms that abolished mandatory capital punishment for certain offenses.

Arrested in 2009 for carrying 3.5 kilograms of methamphetamine from Dubai, she claimed she was unknowingly used as a drug mule by an acquaintance. Despite her defense, Malaysian courts consistently found her testimony not credible, leading to her death sentence in 2011.

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2024-05-30T09:42:39-04:00• VICTIM'S STORY, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2024, JAPAN, MALAYSIA, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Europol’s Operation ENDGAME Strikes At Heart Of Cybercrime’s Botnet Universe – 2024

Europol’s Operation ENDGAME Strikes At Heart Of Cybercrime’s Botnet Universe

Europol and Partners Take Down Another Major Botnet Cybercrime Organization

Primary Category: Cybercrime

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Europol

About This Article

Europol’s largest-ever operation against botnets, dubbed Operation Endgame, targeted malware droppers like IcedID, SystemBC, Pikabot, Smokeloader, and Bumblebee. Coordinated from Europol’s headquarters between May 27 and 29, 2024, the operation aimed to disrupt criminal services by arresting high-value targets, taking down criminal infrastructures, and freezing illegal proceeds.

The multinational effort, involving countries such as France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States, led to four arrests, 16 location searches, and the takedown of over 100 servers. This operation, supported by Eurojust and various private partners, addressed the complex challenge of international cybercrime, highlighting the critical role of botnets in deploying ransomware.

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2024-05-30T06:27:35-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, WORLDWIDE|
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911 S5 Botnet Dismantled – Another Major Botnet Taken Down By Law Enforcement – 2024

911 S5 Botnet Dismantled – Another Major Botnet Taken Down

Law Enforcement Takes Down Another Major Cybercrime Operation

Primary Category: Law Enforcement

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation

About This Article

In a significant international law enforcement operation led by the U.S. Justice Department, the notorious 911 S5 botnet, responsible for infecting over 19 million IP addresses and facilitating large-scale fraud and other crimes, has been dismantled.

The operation resulted in the arrest of YunHe Wang, a Chinese national, who allegedly created and operated the botnet from 2014 to 2022. Wang’s malware compromised millions of residential computers, allowing cybercriminals to commit various offenses, including financial fraud and child exploitation.

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2024-05-29T15:36:42-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, U.S. Department of Justice|
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U.S. FBI’s IC3.gov Turns 24 Years Old! – 2024

U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation – FBI’s IC3.gov Turns 24 Years Old!

Since the very early days of the Internet (World Wide Web) the FBI has been collecting data and complaints on criminal behavior and helping victims get help!

Law Enforcement – FBI IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Center

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by ‘Inside the FBI Podcast’

About This Article

The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), established by the FBI in May 2000, is a crucial platform for reporting internet-related crimes such as identity theft, online fraud, phishing, and ransomware. It collects, analyzes, and disseminates cybercrime data, helping identify patterns and emerging threats.

Beyond processing complaints, IC3 enhances public awareness and provides educational resources to prevent cybercrimes. It collaborates with various law enforcement agencies and partners globally to combat cybercrime effectively, making the digital environment safer.

Over its 24 years, IC3 has adapted to evolving threats, continuously working to protect individuals and businesses from sophisticated online scams.

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2024-05-19T17:58:16-04:00• GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, 2024, ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, VIDEO / AUDIO|
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Global Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Down ‘LabHost’ Phishing-As-A-Service Platform – 2024

Global Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Down ‘LabHost’ Phishing-As-A-Service Platform

The Takedown of the LabHost Platform is a Major Step in Reducing Phishing Scams

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from Europol and UK Metropolitan Police

About This Article

Law enforcement agencies from 19 countries collaborated in a year-long operation to disrupt ‘LabHost,’ one of the world’s largest phishing-as-a-service platforms. Coordinated by Europol, the operation resulted in the compromise of LabHost’s infrastructure and the initial arrest of 37 suspects, with the potential for as many as 1,000 more arrests.

LabHost facilitated phishing attacks on users of hundreds of financial institutions worldwide for a monthly subscription fee. The platform, previously available on the open web, has been shut down following the investigation.

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2024-05-02T19:37:16-04:00• CRIMES & CRIMINALS, • CRIMINAL JUSTICE, 2024, EUROPOL, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, UK Government, WORLDWIDE|
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UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud – 2024

UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud

Psychology of Scams

Authors:
•  UK Parliament – Government of the United Kingdom
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Fraud poses a significant threat to the UK, with 4 in 10 offences targeting individuals. The government’s 2023 Fraud Strategy aims to combat this, emphasizing victim support and prevention.

While stereotypes of elderly victims persist, fraud risks vary due to psychological and social factors. Beyond financial loss, fraud inflicts emotional and psychological harm.

Victims often report fraud to banks rather than authorities. Effective prevention strategies involve education and enhanced victim care. This POSTnote underscores the multifaceted nature of fraud and the need for comprehensive, collaborative approaches to mitigate its impact on individuals in England and Wales.

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2024-05-01T12:28:21-04:00• PSYCHOLOGY, • GOVERNMENT / REGULATORY, • SCAM VICTIM HEALTH, 2024, ARTICLE, DOCUMENT / PDF, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, UK, UK Government|
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The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal – A Romance Scam Victim Who Died Possibly At The Hands Of The Ghana/Nigerian Scammers – 2024 – [Videos]

The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal

A Romance Scam Victim Who Died Possibly At The Hands Of The Ghana Scammers Who Controlled Here!

A Not Uncommon Case of a Romance Scam Victim Who loses Everything and then becomes a Money Mule for Ghana Scammers

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions CBS News and other sources

About This Article

Laura Kowal’s tragic story sheds light on the devastating impact of romance scams, where victims like her become enslaved by expert criminals, leading to dire consequences. Laura, a widow seeking companionship, fell victim to a scam orchestrated by individuals masquerading as her online lover, ‘Frank Borg.’

Despite initial feelings of romance and excitement, Laura eventually became a money mule for Ghana scammers, after ultimately losing $1.5 million.

Mysteriously, she was found drowned in a river, raising suspicions of foul play. Her daughter, Kelly Gowe, tirelessly seeks answers, highlighting the manipulative tactics and devastating consequences of romance scams.

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2024-04-29T04:51:32-04:00• VICTIM'S STORY, 2024, Additional Authors, GHANA, NEWS, NIGERIA, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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Unbelievable Story Of A U.S. Military Soldier Sanda G. Frimpong Involved In A Romance Scam Gang – 2024

Unbelievable Story Of A U.S. Military Soldier Sanda G. Frimpong Involved In A Romance Scam Gang

A U.S. Soldier from Ghana becomes a real romance scam gang member

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Former U.S. Army soldier Sanda G. Frimpong, formerly stationed at Fort Bragg, has been sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for his involvement in a money laundering romance scam targeting vulnerable individuals, including seniors and military veterans, from 2019 to 2022. Frimpong, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering in exchange for the dismissal of multiple charges, including wire fraud and identity theft.

His fraudulent activities, which included impersonating romantic partners and military personnel, resulted in the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through various bank accounts and contacts in Ghana.

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2024-04-23T13:24:16-04:00• CRIMINAL JUSTICE, • CRIMES & CRIMINALS, 2024, GHANA, NEWS, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, USA|
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