The SSU has disrupted a large-scale fraud scheme set up by inmates of Vinnytsia Correctional Facility. Through their ‘mates at large’, they extorted money from customers of Ukrainian online stores. Their monthly turnover reached UAH 100,000 (USD 3,700).

According to findings, the fraudsters acted through fake web-sites of well-known trading platforms, online sales and ads.

To steal funds from customers’ cards, the thieves gained their trust, introduced themselves as employees of the trading platform and offered to fill out a registration form to deliver the supposedly purchased goods.

Then they gave a link to a specially created phishing resource, visually identical to the original site. In this way, they gained access to bank details. Customers’ money was transferred to specially prepared bank cards or wallets of non-bank payment systems.

The illegal business was operating over 3 months, stealing from people in various regions of Ukraine.

According to the investigation, the group consisted of 10 members, including convicts serving sentences for serious crimes. Through their accomplices, they obtained mobile phones, SIM cards, bank cards and access to fake electronic resources.

During the searches at the penitentiary, law enforcement found accounting records with income, expenses and card accounts of various banking institutions as well as communication devices.

The investigation into fraud is underway to bring to justice all those involved. Active members of the group will be served notices of suspicion.

The SSU Office in Vinnitsa carried out the operation together with the National Police investigators and the operational department of Vinnytsia Penitentiary Institution №1 under the supervision of Vinnytsia Region Prosecutor’s Office.