Distilled Classifications of Cybercrimes: Cyber Law Enforcement Highlights Key Traits
Let's Talk about the Gritty Side of Cyber Crime
Ever wondered how crooks keep their illegal gains under wraps? Well, guess who's helping them out? It's a motley crew consisting of ghoulish Couriers, shady Financiers, skeevy Internet Buyers, mysterious Transporters, and, of course, the oh-so-ambitious Investors.
Couriers, the muscle of the operation, take cash and valuables from one hand and pass them to another, either to intermediaries or straight up to the criminals.
Financiers, the brains of the outfit, receive funds into their accounts, shuffle them around, or withdraw cash while maintaining anonymity.
Internet Buyers—not your average online shoppers—receive the funds, then use them to purchase goods and services online for delivery to the client or for resale.
Transporters, using the dough they receive, buy cryptocurrency or gift cards. They then hand these over to the client, creating an illusion of legitimacy.
Investors funnel the money they received into projects that are part and parcel of the criminal scheme.
Now, imagine a bazillion bucks—200 billion to be exact—being laundered through this seedy business every year! And what does our state lose in taxes? A whopping 50 billion UAH!
Fun Fact: One of these criminal networks can process 2-2.5 million UAH per year. Given that the National Bank of Ukraine identified 80,000 of these networks in a year, you do the math!
Remember, these snippets offer just a glimpse into the intricate world of money laundering schemes. There's much more for the curious minds out there! To truly understand the ins and outs of these operations, it's crucial to keep tabs on academic research, case studies, and up-to-date analyses—especially those focusing on the evolving role of digital payment systems and cryptocurrencies in laundering schemes. Good luck, and happy digging!
Pro Tip: Just in case you're curious, common roles within money laundering schemes also include mules, who unwittingly help launder money, and service providers, like accountants and lawyers, who facilitate the process by offering their professional expertise.
Fraudsters utilize ghoulish Couriers to pass cash and valuables, maintaining anonymity. Shady Financiers receive funds, shuffle them, and drop them back into accounts while hiding their identities. Internet Buyers, not ordinary online shoppers, receive funds, purchase goods, and create an illusion of legitimacy. Mysterious Transporters buy cryptocurrency or gift cards, then hand them over to clients. General-news of crime and justice reveal Investors funnel the money they received into criminal schemes, processing large sums annually. These illicit operations, facilitated by various roles like mules and service providers, are a constant focus of academic research and case studies, especially regarding digital payment systems and crypticism.
