Europol Busts $539M Crypto Investment Scam Ring Spanning Spain, US, and EU
2025-06-30 14:03:22
Main Idea
Europol and international law enforcement agencies dismantled a $539 million cryptocurrency investment scam network operating across Spain, the U.S., and the EU, defrauding over 5,000 victims.
Key Points
1. The criminal network collected funds through cash deposits and bank transfers, using Hong Kong-based payment gateways to move stolen funds.
2. Spanish police previously arrested six individuals linked to a separate €19 million ($21.5 million) crypto scam involving AI-generated deepfake videos.
3. The investigation began after a Granada resident lost €624,000 ($700,000) and the suspect was caught fleeing to Dubai.
4. Europol's 2025 Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment (SOCTA) highlights online fraud as a growing threat to EU security.
5. Despite recent takedowns like Archetyp Market, experts warn darknet disruptions may be temporary as operators adapt.
Description
Spanish authorities arrested five individuals on June 25 in connection with a massive cryptocurrency investment fraud worth $539 million (€460 million). According to a press release by Europol, the organization began its involvement in 2023, contributing intelligence, financial analysis, and coordination between agencies. On the day of the arrests, Europol deployed a cryptocurrency specialist to Spain to assist with on-the-ground investigations. Watch the operation unfold as the Spanish Guardia ...
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