South Korean Bitcoin scam uncovered after targeting police detective
The scam, operational since October of the previous year, defrauded at least 50 victims of over $1.6 million by offering small initial dividends before soliciting larger investments.
A South Korean detective has helped bring down a Bitcoin mining scam operation after accidentally becoming one of its targets. The scammers, who operated an illegal call centre, contacted the detective in April, unaware of his position. Realising it was a scam, the detective pretended to fall for the “high-yield” Bitcoin investment scheme, providing his details as if he was interested in investing. This move allowed police to trace the call and investigate further.
Following the detective’s lead, officers were able to track down the scam’s headquarters in Incheon, arresting 81 individuals involved. Among them were those suspected of buying leaked personal data and using fake SIM cards to contact potential victims. Nine key members, including the suspected ringleader, have been detained, while others face charges related to economic crimes and data privacy violations.
Police revealed the group had been running the scheme since October last year, defrauding at least 50 victims. They allegedly lured investors by offering small “dividends” during a free trial period, then asking for larger sums. Altogether, the group is thought to have raised over $1.6 million, promising easy profits through Bitcoin mining. Authorities have urged the public to be cautious of schemes that promise high returns with minimal effort, warning these are often fraudulent.
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