The operations in the UK were led by officers from the Dedicated Card and Payment Crime Unit (DCPCU). Nine search warrants were executed across the country, resulting in four interviews under caution and two arrests – one in Bolton and another in London. During the searches valuable intelligence was gathered and several devices that were suspected of being used to commit remote purchase fraud were seized. Ongoing investigations are now underway that are expected to result in further arrests and charges.
Several of the fraudsters targeted during the operations were using social media to commit remote purchase fraud. Often, criminals will offer goods to buyers for a heavily discounted price via social media and then use stolen card details to make the purchase. The buyers’ card details are then usually stolen and passed on to other fraudsters.
The operation has been followed by the launch of an awareness-raising campaign on social media –#BuySafePaySafe – by Europol and law enforcement agencies across Europe. This complements UK Finance’s Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, which provides customers with advice to help them stay safe from fraud and scams.
Detective Chief Inspector Glyn Whittick, head of the DCPCU, said “The success of these operations shows how through close cooperation with our European partners, retailers and the financial sector, we are cracking down on the criminal gangs targeting consumers online. Ongoing investigations are now underway and we will continue to work together to bring those committing remote purchase fraud to justice.”
“Fraudsters are increasingly targeting people through social media so it’s vital that everyone follows the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign and keeps their details safe. People should also remember when shopping online that if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.”