According to a press release from the judiciary, the arrests took place on Friday. The individuals are suspected of having provided their bank cards and account information to facilitate fraudulent transactions linked to recent phishing incidents in the country. As always, the presumption of innocence applies.
Money muling is a form of money laundering in which individuals, often young people or those facing financial hardship, are recruited via social media. They are then asked to transfer money obtained by criminals through scams such as phishing.
The public prosecutor’s office reminds the public that it is a criminal offence to provide one’s bank card or account for such transactions. Offenders not only risk having their accounts frozen or funds seized, but may also face hefty fines or prison sentences of up to five years.
Readers can find a list of tips against phishing scams here.
