Summary
- A couple from Torrevieja arrested for online fraud affecting 30 victims across 19 Spanish provinces.
- They created a fake website cloning a major telecom company to steal victims’ bank details.
- Financial losses are estimated at around €20,000; judicial authorities ordered provisional prison for the man.
- Authorities seized 65 mobile phones, 87 SIM cards, high-end laptops, crypto wallets, and prepaid cards.
- Inquiry revealed use of virtual payment cards and purchases using stolen data in various stores.
Couple Arrested in Torrevieja for refined Online Telecom Scam
In a notable breakthrough against cybercrime, the Guardia Civil arrested a couple in Torrevieja (Alicante) after uncovering a widespread fraud operation that targeted dozens of victims across Spain. The man, 44, and a 31-year-old woman allegedly orchestrated about 30 scams across 19 provinces by creating fake websites that cloned a prominent multinational telecom company. Their scheme allowed them to steal sensitive bank and payment information from unsuspecting users trying to recharge their cards.
How the Scam Worked: Inside the Cybercrime Operation
The modus operandi behind this fraud was both clever and alarming:
- Fake Website Creation: The suspects developed a fraudulent website that perfectly mimicked the official portal of a well-known telecom company.
- Data Theft: victims input their bank details when attempting to recharge prepaid cards, unaware they were on a fraudulent page.
- Virtual Cards Generation: Using stolen data,the couple created virtual bank cards via digital wallet platforms and linked them to their own mobile devices.
- Purchasing Spree: These virtual cards were then used to make purchases in various retail outlets in the Vega Baja del Segura region.The range of goods reportedly included prepaid cards, cryptocurrency coupons, clothing, and food items.
- Global Payment Cards: Their financial transactions also involved prepaid cards issued in countries such as Cyprus,France,Greece,Lithuania,and Poland,indicating possible international reach.
Scope and Impact of the Fraud
the criminal activity spanned multiple provinces,affecting citizens from locations such as:
| Region | Victims identified |
|---|---|
| Albacete | Yes |
| Alicante | Yes |
| Ciudad real | Yes |
| Cuenca | Yes |
| Toledo | Yes |
| Madrid,Murcia,Valencia,Sevilla,Zaragoza,and others | Yes |
In total,the economic losses are currently estimated at about €20,000. Authorities suspect more victims may emerge as the investigation progresses, particularly given the overseas connections revealed in the use of international payment cards.
Police Action and Evidence Seized
After weeks of close surveillance and detailed investigation, the guardia Civil located and arrested the couple on August 13th. A search of their residence uncovered what officials described as a “fully equipped fraud operations center.” Confiscated items included:
- 65 latest-generation mobile phones
- 87 SIM cards
- Several high-end laptops
- 9 cryptocurrency wallets
- Numerous anonymous prepaid bank cards worth approximately €12,000
The male suspect was placed under provisional imprisonment by court order, while the woman was released with charges pending.The probe remains active, as investigators continue analyzing the confiscated digital evidence.
Why This Case Matters: The Growing Threat of online Payment Fraud
Even though cyberattacks have reportedly slightly declined in number, experts warn the severity of such scams is increasing, especially targeting big retail chains and everyday consumers attempting online transactions. This case highlights:
- The importance of verifying digital platforms before entering any sensitive data.
- The risks of cloning websites that look legitimate but are designed purely to harvest personal and financial information.
- The complexity and adaptability of criminals using digital wallets, virtual cards, and cryptocurrency to obscure their trails.
Consumers should practice caution when entering banking information online and consider using additional security measures like two-factor authentication wherever available.
Tips to protect Yourself From Similar online Scams
- Always confirm website URLs carefully; look for ”https” and verified certificates.
- Use official apps and portals over third-party websites for recharging cards or payments.
- Enable two-factor authentication on banking and payment platforms.
- Be vigilant of unsolicited emails or messages prompting you to enter payment info.
- Regularly monitor bank statements and report any suspicious activity immediately.
By staying informed and cautious, internet users can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to sophisticated frauds such as the one uncovered in Torrevieja.
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Sources
- ABC España – “Detenida pareja en Torrevieja acusada de estafar a víctimas en 19 provincias” – Read More