Russia Cracks Down on Crypto Exchanges Linked to International Scam Operations

Russian security services have dismantled nine cryptocurrency exchanges in Moscow as part of a major fraud investigation.

The operation, carried out by the Federal Security Service (FSB) and the Interior Ministry, targeted unlicensed exchange facilities that allegedly converted illicitly obtained funds into digital currencies for international transfers.

Over 20 individuals were apprehended during the raids at Moscow's International Business Center, including suspected money couriers aged between 18 and 25 who transported stolen funds to exchange points.

The network is believed to be connected to Ukrainian-based telephone scam operations, with investigators tracking defrauded victims and cryptocurrency transaction trails across borders.