Ukraine Exposes Network of Pseudo-Investment Centers
A network of pseudo-investment centers has been exposed in Ukraine, having defrauded approximately 800 people out of over UAH 40 million. The organization's activities were uncovered by law enforcement officers, who identified seven injured citizens from Ukraine who suffered damages exceeding UAH 10 million.
The scheme was organized by two residents of Kharkiv, who created a complex structure with clearly defined roles among participants and managed its financing. SMM specialists, managers, and so-called traders were involved in the functioning of the network, using social engineering methods, specialized software, and modern means of communication to gain the trust of citizens.
Members of the organization persuaded victims to invest money in fictitious investment projects, transferring funds and crypto assets to controlled electronic wallets. To create an illusion of successful investing, fictitious profit growth was demonstrated, with people being demanded additional payments supposedly for paying taxes, commissions, insurance, or unblocking accounts.