Scam operation targets 20,000 pensioners using phishing

Law enforcement has recently uncovered a large digital arrest scam operation that has targeted 20,000 pensioners. The scam uses advanced techniques such as phishing, social engineering, and insider help to steal sensitive information from victims. Officers are working with banks to identify and freeze suspicious transactions in real-time. The scam's scale is shocking. Officers found that scammers had detailed lists containing the names and bank details of many elderly individuals. In previous investigations, authorities seized carefully scripted speeches used to manipulate and scare victims into compliance. These scripts are designed to exploit vulnerabilities like age, health, or financial situations. Scammers are targeting older individuals, using tactics to obtain personal data. They often use social engineering, like phishing emails or phone calls, to trick victims into sharing their information. They also gain access to data through security breaches or collude with corrupt bank employees to acquire sensitive information. These criminal groups use "mule accounts" to handle transactions. These accounts are opened by unsuspecting people who are tricked or coerced into letting scammers use their bank accounts. Once scammers receive money, it is quickly moved to other accounts, making it hard for the police to track. Scammers recruit mule account holders through online job ads, promising easy money. They also use fake identities to acquire SIM cards, which they need to make calls without being traced. Many of these SIMs are bought illegally or through corrupt retailers. Law enforcement is trying to trace the stolen money in real-time. Once suspicious transactions are flagged, an investigation is launched. Officers analyze the flow of funds from victims to scammers, aiming to prevent further theft and track down the criminals behind the scam. Despite their efforts, these criminal networks often manage to elude capture.