Four individuals detained in Madrid, aged 22 to 44, are accused of extorting and fraudulently handling at least 119 online betting profiles. The victims faced the loss of access to their accounts and sensitive information, all tied to a coordinated effort by a small criminal network.
The Civil Guard reported that the suspects managed to deceive their targets, resulting in losses totaling around 128,000 euros. The investigation began when a cluster of online sports betting activity raised suspicions of fraudulent behavior and data leakage. This early information helped investigators piece together a broader scheme and gather decisive evidence.
During the inquiry, authorities uncovered that the scammers frequently used virtual private networks to mask device IP addresses, making it difficult to trace the activity back to their actual locations. This technical detail, a common tactic among fraud rings, allowed the group to operate with a veneer of anonymity while targeting vulnerable bettors.
Parallel lines of inquiry revealed that the extortionists appeared oblivious to the nature of their alleged crimes. They had reportedly entered a selective job process that required providing a photo ID, which then facilitated the manipulation of accounts and the collection of personal information from the victims.
Ultimately, investigators were able to pinpoint the IP addresses involved, leading to the arrest of four suspects on charges including ongoing fraud, extortion, and membership in a criminal organization. The case illustrates how digital avenues can be exploited to commit traditional crimes like extortion, while reinforcing the need for vigilance among online bettors and service providers alike. Attribution: Civil Guard press release and subsequent inquiries.