Germany Cracks Down on Global Online Fraud, 18 Arrested in €300M Scam

German authorities have arrested 18 individuals in a coordinated international operation targeting an alleged online fraud and money laundering network. The crackdown involved collaboration with German payment service providers and law enforcement agencies across multiple countries.

Investigations revealed that between 2016 and 2021, the suspects allegedly exploited credit card information of approximately 4.3 million people from 193 countries. The fraudulent activity reportedly caused financial damages exceeding €300 million.

German prosecutors and the Federal Criminal Police Office confirmed that the operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat large-scale cybercrime and cross-border financial fraud. Authorities emphasized that the arrests highlight the growing global threat of online financial crimes and the need for enhanced cooperation between countries and financial institutions.

The investigation is ongoing, with officials reviewing financial trails and communication networks to identify additional suspects and prevent future fraud schemes.

This major crackdown underscores Germany’s commitment to protecting consumers, financial systems, and international markets from sophisticated cybercriminal networks.