Members of the cyberfraud network are detained during an operation by Iraq’s National Intelligence Service. Faces were blurred in the footage released by authorities.
Iraq intelligence service breaks up international digital fraud, money laundering ring
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s National Intelligence Service said Thursday it has dismantled an international network involved in electronic fraud and money laundering, following a coordinated operation carried out under the supervision of the Supreme Judicial Council.
The agency said the group had been operating across several governorates, luring victims through phone calls, text messages and fake links impersonating electronic payment companies. The network used electronic fraud schemes in which criminals deceived victims through digital communication to steal personal data, bank-card information or money. After obtaining this information, the group allegedly withdrew funds, transferred the money abroad and then brought it back into Iraq through laundering operations.
According to the agency, the arrests came after “precise intelligence information, field monitoring and the collection of detailed evidence about the network’s movements,” followed by raids conducted under judicial warrants. The operation resulted in the detention of several members of the group.
The National Intelligence Service said it “pledges to continue pursuing those involved in such crimes” and urged the public to avoid responding to unknown calls or messages and not to disclose personal information or electronic card data, calling on citizens to report any similar criminal activity.